Turmeric
botanically known as Curcuma longa , is a plant species in the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). Turmeric is native to South Asia, particularly India, where it has been used in cooking and traditional medicine for thousands of years. Today, turmeric is also cultivated in other tropical regions such as Indonesia, China and Africa.
Look
The turmeric plant is a perennial herbaceous plant that can grow up to one meter tall. It has large, elongated leaves and funnel-shaped yellow flowers. The underground part of the plant, the rhizome, is tuberous, branched and has a bright orange-yellow color that is characteristic of turmeric.
Taste and Aroma
Turmeric has a warm, earthy and slightly bitter taste with a mild, peppery aroma. The main flavor profile comes from curcumin, which is also responsible for the intense yellow color.