Is that ginger, or turmeric?

Some of my local American grocery stores have recently begun stocking turmeric root next to the ginger. That made my heart sing: No longer do I have to make an extra trip to specialty store to pick up the root. And since its easier to come by now, I tend to use it more often and prefer its taste over that of dried turmeric. I just use a little more of the fresh stuff. So about a tablespoon of fresh turmeric where I would use perhaps 3/4 teaspoons of regular old dried turmeric.

But several folks have asked how to identify fresh turmeric roots. Especially if its sitting next to ginger and other roots in an Asian grocery store where produce isn't labeled in English.

I'm assuming you already know what ginger root looks like. Kind of. Right? But you're holding another root that looks like ginger and are wondering if that's turmeric, or something else? If that's you, read on!

First, the looks:

The ginger root you'll find in most American grocery stores is typically larger than turmeric root. It's also mostly a light yellow color, under a yellow-brown skin.

Turmeric root is just a hair smaller, but decidedly more orange. Its color can range from light coral orange to a more saturated hue. The skin is papery and thin, like very young ginger roots. Or raw carrots. Turmeric will also stain skin and nails a bright orange-yellow within seconds of contact when cut. So watch out for that too.

Second, the feel:

Ginger root, even fresh, young roots, are fibrous compared to turmeric. Turmeric breaks easily when flexed, while ginger root tends to break with more of a snap. Turmeric root also feels springier to the touch, whereas ginger root doesn't give much, if at all.

Third, the aroma:

Ginger root has a spicy fragrance. If you are familiar with dried ginger, fresh ginger will have a brighter aroma, where dried ginger is a little earthier. But they're very similar. If you are familiar with one, you'll recognize the other.

Turmeric root sometimes smells like dried turmeric, but not always. It will sometimes have a faintly floral, woody smell.

Finally, if you're still unsure, just chew on a small piece. Turmeric root will have faint turmeric notes with spicy tones. Ginger will taste like, well, ginger.

If you're still in doubt (and Asian grocery stores don't always have staff available to help in the aisles), just take your roots to the checkout counter, and they'll help you. Perhaps not service with a smile, but you'll walk out with the right root for your food!

Now that you have your turmeric root, why not give my easy, clean and delicious soup recipe above a try? It’s great for a quick pick-me-up and full of good-for-you ingredients.

Hope this helps!