Now there are quite a few people when face with the name of this spice turmeric may not know what to use it for or may have never heard of it. Well it is a spice which may not be one of the first you would think of. I guess the most basic are just plain old salt and pepper and then we just take it from there depending on what kind of dishes we plan to make. First of all this spice is a common ingredient used in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking. Turmeric is also used in Chinese medicine. It is often used in combination with other kinds of spices. It is an ingredient used very often when making curries which are rich type of stews or sauces that include a blend of spices which cook up in a thick mixture and are served with meat. Rice is made more colorful and flavorful by using turmeric. It’s added to the rice as it cooks and as a result of which the rice becomes a bright yellow color and has a pleasant, distinctive flavor. Other vegetables that benefit from turmeric are potatoes and cauliflower. Often also used in soups and stir-fries. Turmeric is great in any recipe which features lentils and you can use a pinch of turmeric to salad dressings to give your salads added color. 

When making use of turmeric for the first time begin by adding small amounts to your cooking as it has an intense flavor which increases in the cooking process so follow recipes exactly. Be careful as turmeric can dye your hands, kitchen towels and counters a light yellow. Always wash your hands thoroughly and clean up spills right away. It should be stored in a well-sealed container and kept in a dry, cool place away from sunlight. Otherwise it can lose its flavor and aroma. 

Some other uses of turmeric are:

·         Using as a natural food coloring for foods such as cheese and butter.

·         If mixed with citronella essential oil has been known to be effective against mosquitoes.

·         A paste made with turmeric can relieve inflamed joints or muscles.