Turmeric + These foods = The ultimate health-boosting meals
What's the story
Turmeric, the vibrant yellow spice, is well-known for its health benefits. It contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties.
Including turmeric in your diet can be beneficial when combined with certain foods that improve its absorption and potency.
Here, we take you through various food pairings with turmeric to make health-boosting recipes that are nutritious as well as flavorful.
Spice pairing
Turmeric and black pepper combination
Combining turmeric with black pepper can significantly boost curcumin's absorption in the body.
The latter contains piperine which increases curcumin's bioavailability by up to 2,000%.
Adding a pinch of black pepper to turmeric-laced dishes can maximize its health benefits.
This pairing is perfect for soups, stews, or even smoothies where both spices can blend seamlessly.
Warm beverage
Turmeric in golden milk
Golden milk has become a popular way to get your daily dose of turmeric.
The warm beverage uses milk (or plant-based alternatives) along with turmeric, black pepper, and spices like cinnamon or ginger.
The fat in milk helps dissolve curcumin, making it easier for the body to absorb.
Having golden milk regularly may support the health of your joints and improve digestion.
Fat absorption
Turmeric with healthy fats
Curcumin is fat-soluble, i.e., it dissolves better in fat than water.
Pairing turmeric with healthy fats like olive oil or coconut oil can increase its absorption into the bloodstream.
Use this combination when cooking curries or stir-fries and ensure that you get the most out of turmeric's benefits, while enjoying the delicious meals.
Flavorful addition
Turmeric in rice dishes
Adding turmeric in your rice dishes not only gives a beautiful color but also increases their nutritional value.
When cooking rice, just add a teaspoon of turmeric with some black pepper, and olive oil for a flavor and health boost.
This simple addition makes plain rice into an aromatic side dish rich in antioxidants.
Nutrient-rich drink
Turmeric smoothie boosts
Incorporating turmeric into smoothies is the easiest way to reap its benefits without significantly altering taste.
Simply blend fruits like bananas or mangoes with yogurt (or plant-based alternatives), add a teaspoon of ground turmeric along with some ginger root if you'd like;
finish off by sprinkling ground flaxseeds on top before serving cold as a refreshing breakfast option packed full of nutrients!