Turmeric is a versatile ingredient with many surprising uses beyond cooking. Here are seven unexpected ways to use turmeric in the kitchen:

Natural Food Coloring: Use turmeric to add a vibrant yellow color to foods like rice, sauces, and baked goods. It’s a natural alternative to artificial dyes. Homemade Pickles: Add turmeric to pickling brine for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful color. It also has antimicrobial properties, which can help preserve the pickles. Infused Oils: Create a turmeric-infused oil by steeping turmeric in olive oil or another cooking oil. Use it in dressings, marinades, or as a finishing oil for dishes. Golden Milk: Mix turmeric with milk (or a dairy-free alternative) and sweetener to make a soothing beverage known as golden milk. It’s great for digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. Natural Dishwasher Cleaner: Sprinkle some turmeric in your dishwasher during a cycle to help remove stains and boost the cleaning power of your detergent. Freshening Agent: Create a natural air freshener by simmering water with turmeric, cinnamon, and other spices. This can fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. Stain Remover: Mix turmeric with baking soda and water to create a paste for removing stubborn stains from countertops or cutting boards. Just be careful, as turmeric can stain surfaces! These uses not only highlight turmeric’s versatility but also its potential health benefits. Just be cautious with its staining properties!