A Moroccan Chermoula spice blend is dependent upon the warm earthiness of turmeric to amalgamate spices such as cumin, paprika, chilli and pepper with onion, garlic, parsley and coriander leaf. Our Kuwaiti Fish Stew with Black Lime relies on the inclusion of turmeric for the harmonisation of its cardamom, pepper, cumin and chilli notes, with coriander leaves and green dill. I have found turmeric goes well in stir-fries with lime leaves, galangal, chilli and Australian native lemon myrtle. Kapitan chicken is a delicious dish that European colonials enjoyed in Malaya, and the prime constituents of its flavour come from onions, garlic, chilli and turmeric.
For more great Turmeric recipe ideas, click here: Turmeric Recipes
Although turmeric is often called Indian saffron, turmeric should never be used in a recipe as a substitute for true saffron, as the flavour is quite different. One can make an attractive and tasty yellow rice dish, though, with turmeric. When cooking by absorption, for every cup of rice covered with water, add 1⁄2 tsp of turmeric powder, a 4 cm quill of cinnamon, 3 whole cloves and 4 green cardamom pods.
Always be very careful not to spill turmeric on your clothes, as it will leave stains that are almost impossible to remove!