In recent years, Turmeric – January Featured Ingredient has risen in popularity. So, what is turmeric, where does it originate and what are its health benefits? Also, how is turmeric used in cooking? That said, I’m starting back up my featured monthly ingredient, introducing you to new or for some a reminder to incorporate new flavors to everyday favorites. It’s so easy to get stuck in a rut when cooking. We all tend to cook the same things on a regular basis. Yet, all it takes is one ingredient to perk up those favorite recipes.
Turmeric – January Featured Ingredient
Turmeric is actually a flowering plant growing mostly in India and Central America. You may see turmeric called Curcumin because it it the spices active ingredient which has lead to a variety of treatments such as inflammation. Popular in Ayurvedic including Chinese medicine (Indian System of Treatment) use turmeric biological properties to treat chronic pain and inflammation. Happy to say Western medicine has begin to research these findings in recent years.
Turmeric – January Featured Ingredient
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Golden spice or Indian saffron as called is found either fresh or powder form. Also, available in teas, extracts, and dietary supplements. Talk to someone specialized in providing information on how to use supplements safely. Taking herbs is not right for everyone especially if you have allergies. These days turmeric seems to be everywhere. However, my greatest use and yours will be the use in cooking.
Turmeric – January Featured Ingredient
What foods can you prepare using turmeric? Today, you’ll find lattes and smoothies, chocolate and sweets, eggs, soups, and curries especially in vegan cooking. Checkout my recipe for Golden Milk Chai Tea Latte. It’s the perfect drink for a cold winters night. I know it’s not warm outside but if you’re grilling or by all means use the broiler to make my Grilled Bone-in Chicken Breasts with Turmeric and Lime Turmeric or Honey Lemon Turmeric Glazed Chicken. Great for chicken night and easy to prepare. Ensure you follow recipes as written when using turmeric because if too much is used your dish will have an off-taste or bitterness.
Turmeric – January Featured Ingredient
Last year I stumbled upon a website called HolyCowVegan.net. The website is full of delicious vegan dishes and traditional Indian food. Anyone looking to add turmeric and vegan eating to their diet, this is a site to visit. I’ve made several of the dishes and so worth trying. Whether you’re new to turmeric or not, add a bit to recipes your family enjoys and certainly venture out of the comfort zone. That’s where you’ll find sheer joy in everything you cook. Happy Cooking!
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