Turmeric Delivery or Pickup

Commonly used as a spice in a variety of dishes, turmeric is available with a variety of labels. In addition to seeing turmeric called curcumin, which is actually the active ingredient in the spice, you might find turmeric products with names such as Indian saffron or turmeric root.

When used in powdered form as a spice, turmeric boasts a vibrant yellow color. Turmeric delivers a powerful punch of flavor and color with just a spoonful or two. It is prized in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine and modern wellness movements alike for its anti-inflammatory properties and other health benefits. Turmeric has also traditionally been used in India to treat digestive issues and problems with joints, skin, and upper respiratory tract.

You can buy fresh turmeric, which looks similar to small knobs of ginger. Though both fresh turmeric and powdered turmeric can taste bitter, the fresh varieties often have a brighter, almost citrusy taste. Fresh turmeric rhizomes are a lot like ginger in this way too, as fresh ginger can deliver a livelier flavor compared to dried options. You can cut the bright orange flesh of fresh turmeric into coins, cubes, or matchsticks, or grate it with a grater or zester. Fresh turmeric is also great when used in juices and smoothies.

Turmeric powder is easy to cook with aromatics like garlic and onions to make the base of a stew or soup, and it's perfect for mixing into spice rubs and marinades. Turmeric is a key ingredient in curry powder.

Dried turmeric is also sold whole. Dried turmeric products are created by peeling, boiling, and drying rhizomes, a process that causes turmeric to lose some of its pungency and essential oils. However, you can still use dried turmeric for color and warmth when you cook.

When shopping for turmeric, the characteristics you'll look for depend on whether you're shopping for fresh or dried turmeric. If you're shopping for fresh turmeric, you'll want to look for firm rhizomes and avoid rhizomes that are dried, shriveled, or soft. If you're shopping for dried turmeric products, let the aroma guide you. The aroma can indicate quality better than color can because turmeric's color can naturally range from yellow to orange.

Similarly, your storage techniques for turmeric will vary depending on whether you have fresh or dried turmeric. You can store fresh turmeric in your refrigerator for a week or two in an airtight container or plastic bag. You can also freeze fresh turmeric for several months. You can store dried turmeric for up to a year if you keep it in a cool, dark place and in an airtight container.