In the fields where it grows, the turmeric plant hides its brilliant color underground, showing only glossy green leaves and multi-petaled white flowers. But dig up the root, carefully clean and dry it, and you have an extraordinary spice beloved as much for its color as its flavor.
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Spice Story
Get to Know the Golden Spice
In Western cultures, turmeric pops up as early as 600 B.C., when Marco Polo thought enough about it to include it in his journals. Long before that, it was known and prized in Asia for its flavor and believed healing properties. Today, it’s the best friend in your favorite dishes, with vibrant color and unexpected benefits that make it a helpful addition to many a dish.
There are many varieties of turmeric. We source Alleppey turmeric, with high curcumin levels, bright yellow color and deep flavor. McCormick turmeric hails from India, where it’s considered a sacred part of Hindu culture. Our 20-year-plus partner in India works to ensure consistent color and quality in every bottle.
On its own, turmeric has a pungent, slightly bitter flavor—a mix between ginger and pepper. The magic of its flavor comes alive when it’s paired with other spices, herbs, and ingredients. Not only does it give dishes and drinks a rich, golden hue, but it elevates the other flavors for complexity and depth.
First up, anything orange. Bring on the sweet potatoes, butternut squash, pumpkin, and carrots, and amplify with a sprinkling of turmeric. Strong, warm spices like cinnamon, black pepper, and ginger are also ideal partners. Blend with coconut milk to create golden milk, and don’t forget to experiment by adding it to Greek-style yogurt for delicious curry recipes. This is one spice that when blended with others, you can rarely go wrong.
Spice Story
Turmeric: Did You Know?
Turmeric Plant In Bloom
Fun Fact #1
Turmeric is part of the ginger family, which explains the similar aroma and look of the root.
Fun Fact #2
Turmeric has a pungent, slightly bitter flavor—a mix between ginger and pepper
Fun Fact #3
Turmeric is named for where it is exported and classified by the percentage curcumin.
OUR TURMERIC SOURCING STORY
We have sourced from our partner in India for over 20 years
We source Alleppey turmeric
Most of our turmeric comes from the Kerala and Orissa regions
Turmeric is planted once per year, typically in May or June
Grows for about 8 months on average before harvest
Direct supply chain from source location to grinding and bottling
