Turmeric powder is ground from the dried roots of the turmeric plant. It is often used as a colouring agent in pickles, chutney and mustard and gives the characteristic yellow colour to piccalilli. Often used as a more economical alternative to saffron, turmeric is a common ingredient in rice dishes and curries, adding a warm and peppery flavour and aroma. Turmeric has long been regarded as an anti-inflammatory agent and reputed to have medicinal properties.
