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Culinary

What is Turmeric Paste?

By Harriette Halepis
Updated May 17, 2024
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Turmeric paste is a type of paste that has been derived from the turmeric plant. In order to make turmeric paste, turmeric leaves must first be boiled, dried, and then added to liquid in order to form a paste. This substance can be used for a number of different applications ranging from a food additive to a medicinal ingredient.

Many food manufacturers use a form of turmeric paste in order to add a yellow color to food. Various types of mustard, butter, chicken broth and other products appear yellow in color due to the addition of turmeric paste. This paste is also widely used in Ayurvedic medicine, a type of traditional Indian medicine, in order to heal cuts, soothe burns, and as an anti-inflammatory salve. Throughout Asia, turmeric is also used to soothe upset stomachs.

In addition to many medicinal uses, turmeric can also used to get rid of unwanted hair. Throughout Asia, women rub turmeric paste on various body parts in order to prevent hair growth. Some sunscreen manufacturers also use this paste in order to soothe dry skin. While most people who use turmeric paste purchase this ingredient, it is possible to form a paste from turmeric at home.

To create a paste using turmeric, boil one cup of water (237 ml) with one quarter cup (59 ml) of turmeric powder. Once a paste has formed, this product can be used for any of the applications mentioned above. This paste can also be stored in an airtight container for many days. If paste becomes dry, a small amount of water can be added to the mixture.

Since turmeric is a natural ingredient, there are few side effects associated with it. Some people may experience a slight rash or irritation after applying turmeric paste. If this occurs, it is best to avoid using the paste completely. In most instances, this type of paste can be used without causing any noticeable or troublesome reaction.

As previously mentioned, it is possible to create a thickened version of turmeric powder, though this product can also be purchased. When purchasing any kind of turmeric paste, it is important to look carefully at a product's ingredients. While most of these products are natural, some products may contain yellow dye, which is not a natural ingredient. Selecting a paste that does not contain any kind of dye is the best course of action. Natural products can be purchased from reputable retailers online or in a health food store.

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Discussion Comments

By ddljohn — On May 17, 2013

@alisha-- That's what I do but boiling it might make the turmeric more effective. I'm not sure.

I use homemade turmeric paste for acne several times a week. Sometimes I mix fine turmeric powder with cold water to make a paste, sometimes I mix it with plain yogurt and water. I apply this on my face and wash it off after at least fifteen minutes.

It works, but the key is to use fine turmeric powder. Otherwise, the paste doesn't come out well.

By discographer — On May 16, 2013

Instead of boiling water and turmeric together, can I just mix turmeric powder with cold water to make a paste?

By bear78 — On May 16, 2013

Chicken bouillon cubes have turmeric paste in them. I'm so glad that the food industry uses turmeric paste for yellow coloring. I hate it when they use artificial food coloring.

Plus, turmeric is so healthy. I keep hearing about its anti-inflammatory and cancer fighting properties. My friend also treated her psoriasis by consuming turmeric powder and paste with her meals.

I try to consume turmeric often, I usually add it to my favorite Indian curry recipe. Indian cuisine uses a lot of turmeric paste in general.

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