For winter storage, is it better to keep turmeric as a powder or a fresh paste? Discover the pros and cons of each method for preserving its potency.
1 Answer
Turmeric can be stored as either powder or paste in winter, but storing it as a paste can help retain its flavor and aroma for longer.
Detailed Explanation:
Turmeric powder is convenient and has a longer shelf life in general, but it can lose its potency and flavor over time, especially if exposed to air and moisture. Storing turmeric as a paste, made by combining turmeric powder with water or oil, helps to protect the volatile oils that contribute to its flavor and aroma. The paste form also makes it readily available for cooking, saving you time in the kitchen. To store turmeric paste, mix turmeric powder with a little water or oil to form a smooth paste. Store the paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The oil helps to preserve the paste and prevent it from drying out.
Pro Tip:
When making turmeric paste, add a pinch of black pepper. Piperine, a compound found in black pepper, significantly enhances the absorption of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, by the body.