The Benefits of Using Tumeric - One Spice, Many Uses

Growing up in an Indian home, turmeric was a stable spice in the kitchen. Its benefits, however, permeated far beyond the kitchen. Made into a paste to be applied on cuts to help them heal. Mixed in with Multani Mitti (Fuller’s Earth) it makes a face mask to clear away acne and make your skin “glow”.

It's only in recent times that the North American consumer has started to incorporate it into its diet – partially because the range of cuisines available (and enjoyed) has massively increased and partly because of the interest in the healing properties of food. And turmeric is definitely one of those foods that is a great addition to the diet.

A little known fact, however, is that the healing properties of turmeric are augmented when black pepper is added. Making a golden paste is a great way to easily incorporate both turmeric and black pepper into your cooking, because you can make it in advance and just add a spoonful into whatever you’re making. You can also choose to add other ingredients (such as cinnamon or ginger) to the paste if you’d like.

But you may be wondering what to do with it, once you’ve made it. Here are a few ideas:

• You may have heard about turmeric lattes. What you may not know is that these have been a staple in Indian homes for generations because it promotes healing. You can easily make it at home by mixing golden paste with milk.

• How about adding a spoonful to your morning smoothie?

• Spread a layer in your sandwich

• Adding some to your soup when you’re making it is a perfect addition as it just ups the healing powers

• And of course, adding it to curries is a no-brainer!

I even add golden paste to my dog, Quilla’s food!

PS just so you know turmeric can stain! Be careful when using it