Turmeric powder, Sri Lanka, organic

Turmeric has a thick, slightly dusty, warming flavor that is accentuated by its deep orange hue. As a result of these taste qualities, turmeric is used in countless mixes for its color and ability to bring together the flavors of different spices in a dish.

Turmeric root is from the ginger family and is grown under the same conditions. Before the roots (such as potatoes) are sown, the soil is prepared by slowly burning coconut shells soaked in water to prevent weeds and pests. At harvest, the turmeric root is dug up, rinsed and boiled briefly to stop growth before being dried and hard as a stone. Before machine cooling, the skins are polished and the end result is a beautiful yellow-orange powder.

Turmeric goes perfectly with seafood, barbecue marinades and curry mixes for meat, lentils, beans and cabbage. Because of its strength, dried turmeric root is nearly impossible to grind at home, which is why Mill&Mortar offers turmeric powder. Their turmeric comes from the Develapola group in Sri Lanka.