There are so many delicious spices that can take a meal to the next level. Two of our favorite spices that make any dish memorable are turmeric and curry powder.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a yellow-orange spice that is used widely in the Middle East and Asia. [1] The turmeric spice comes from grinding up the root of the turmeric plant. Turmeric has curcumin in it, which can help boost your immune system. Curcumin fights inflammation and has cancer fighting benefits. [2] It is also an antioxidant.
How to prepare it
Turmeric adds a distinct flavor and a beautiful golden color to foods and beverages alike. Here are a few ways to try it:
- Add it to soups
- Add it to rice
- Toss it with roasted vegetables
- Mix it with ginger in hot tea
- Add it to overnight oats
- Add it to scrambled eggs
- Try this Indian vegetable and rice skillet
- Make this red lentil with onion dish
Curry powder
Curry powder is a ready-made mixture of spices including turmeric, chili powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, ground ginger, and pepper. [3] Curry powder can range from 5 ingredients to more than 10. [4] There are mild, medium, and hot versions of curry powder.
You might think that curry powder came from India, but it was actually created by the British in an attempt to recreate the flavors of India.[4],[5] There is no premade mix of curry powder as we know it in India!
How to prepare it
Try our delicious (and vegan!) curry chickpea sandwich for a quick and flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
For the sandwich filling:
- 1 – 15 ounce can reduced sodium chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup vegan mayo
- 1 small piece of celery, thinly sliced
- 1/8 cup red onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 2 teaspoons of mild curry powder
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice or ½ of squeezed lemon
For each sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread
- 2 pieces of lettuce
- 1 slice of tomato (optional)
Instructions:
- Place chickpeas in a large bowl. Using a fork, mash most of the chickpeas leaving some large pieces for texture.
- Add the remaining filling ingredients to the bowl and mix well.
- Assemble each sandwich by toasting 2 slices of bread and layering each sandwich with 1/4th of the chickpea salad, lettuce, and tomato (if using). Top with the other piece of bread. Enjoy!
What’s your favorite turmeric or curry powder recipe?
Written by Taylor Newman, Ph.D. Candidate | Edited by Laurel Sanville, MS, RDN, LD