A staple in every Indian kitchen, turmeric powder or haldi has been used for cooking and medicinal purposes for years. It has a vibrant colour, earthy flavour and numerous health benefits that make it indispensable in our everyday cooking. Monsoons have arrived and we are facing the brunt of excessive traffic at this time. So, what if you decide to cook your favourite dal but find out that you don’t have turmeric? Well, for those times, we have some handy alternatives for you! That’s right, you can use other spices if you run out of turmeric at the last minute. If you are wondering which ones, you have landed on the right page! Read on to know 5 turmeric alternatives that you can use in the kitchen.
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Here are 5 turmeric substitutes you can use in your kitchen
1. Saffron
Saffron, also known as kesar in Hindi, is a fancy cousin of turmeric. Although it is relatively more expensive than turmeric, a pinch of saffron can easily produce the distinctive color of turmeric. Saffron is perfect for dishes like pulao, kheer or biryani where you need a vibrant yellow color. All you need to do is soak a few strands of saffron in hot water and then add it to your dish to extract its color and flavor. Although saffron may not have the exact same taste as turmeric, its sweetness and aroma can make your dishes better.
2. Ground cumin
If you can do without the yellow but need that flavor, ground cumin, also known as cumin powder, can do the trick. Cumin has a warm, nutty flavor that pairs well with every Indian dish. When combined with other spices, such as Kashmiri red chili powder, cumin powder gives a pleasant flavor. Cumin is especially useful in dals, curries, and vegetables. Simply use half a teaspoon of cumin powder for every one teaspoon of turmeric powder.
3. Curry powder
If you don’t have turmeric powder, use the versatile curry powder you probably have in your kitchen! Curry powder is a blend of several spices, including turmeric, making it an easy substitute. This spice blend provides a mix of earthy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors that add a punch of flavor to your dishes. All you have to do is use one teaspoon of curry powder for every one teaspoon of turmeric.
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4. Ground ginger
Ground ginger or ginger powder is another alternative to turmeric. However, it may not give the color of turmeric but adds a warm and spicy touch to your regular dishes. Ginger is a staple in Indian cooking, and its powder is used in a variety of recipes. It is great, especially if you want the distinct pungent smell of turmeric in a dish. All you need to do is use half a teaspoon of ground ginger for every teaspoon of turmeric and you are good to go!
5. Mustard powder
For a similar flavor and color profile, use mustard powder in your recipes. Also known as sarson ka powder, this spice is made from ground mustard seeds, it adds a peppery flavor to your dishes. It’s perfect for marinades, pickles, and spice mixes. Start with a pinch, because it’s potent. Mustard powder can give your dishes a similar vibrant color and zest. Simply add half a teaspoon of mustard powder for every teaspoon of turmeric powder.
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Did you know of these alternatives to turmeric? Let us know in the comments below!