Using Turmeric!

Turmeric (haldi), the wonder spice, is finally gaining popularity in the west and many are recognizing its health benefits. You may have noticed many people discussing various recipes consisting of turmeric as a main ingredient. Recently someone asked me what a turmeric latte is and it got me thinking about the benefits of turmeric. I did some research and a big smile came to my face when my husband, Alex, questioned me about how turmeric powder (often considered not very tasty!) could be turned into a delicious latte. Turmeric is not what you would expect in a gourmet coffee drink!

In Indian cooking, turmeric is one of the most essential spices and is used in almost every dish. Turmeric powder in milk, or “haldi ka doodh”, is a great home remedy drink.

To make “Haldi ka doodh”, mix in one fourth teaspoon of turmeric powder in about 6oz of warm milk.

Our mothers and grandmothers forced us to drink this unpleasant medicine and now we are imposing it on our kids and grandkids. Turmeric can cure many things, including cough, congestion, colds, aches and pains. It is also used as an anti-inflammatory medicine. In India, turmeric is treated as a magic potion for many ailments!

Another good way to use fresh turmeric is as a relish. Fresh turmeric is now readily available in grocery stores. Turmeric looks like a small piece of ginger and is orange.

Here is the recipe for Turmeric Relish:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh turmeric washed peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh ginger washed peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Method

1. Place all the ingredient in a glass jar.
2. Relish will be ready in 2-3 hours.
3. Relish can be stored in refrigerator for 3-4 weeks.
4. Serve as relish or pickle in small quantity.