Super Food: Turmeric
I love when information about food, raw food and the relationship between food and health is highlighted in mainstream media. I was watching “Good Morning America” on Friday. Dr. David Servan-Schreiber was talking about his new book, “Anti Cancer, A New Way of Life”. One of the first things that he mentioned was how important it was to make your diet comprised mostly of plants. We already know that here, but what caught my attention was his reference to Turmeric. I have hear that turmeric is a healthy addition to your diet but after listening to Dr. Servan-Schreiber, I was inspired to do some more research and develop a recipe that is based on this “super food”.
Turmeric has been called one of nature’s most powerful healers. It has great anti-inflammatory properties which can address symptoms of arthritis. It is anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. It is said to be a digestive aid that will settle the stomach. Turmeric contains a rich source of antioxidants that help fight against free radicals. It also is said to have anti-platelet properties that help protect against strokes and heart attacks. Studies have also shown that it has a beneficial effect on the liver.
Since I am in a major snacking mode, I decided to make a raw food turmeric dip. It is quick, easy and contains great healthy properties from the turmeric along with the other ingredients.
Turmeric Veggie Dip and Appetizer
- 1 cup soaked cashews
- 1 cup young coconut flesh (1 – 2 young coconuts)
- 1/4 cup coconut water (from young coconut)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 teaspoons turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- 2 tablespoons agave
- 1 sliced cucumber
- Optional: other dipping veggies (celery, carrots, etc)
- Place all ingredients in food processor and process until smooth. This will take a bit and you will need to stop and scrape down the sides occasionally.
- Slice Cucumber and pipe the dip onto rounds. Alternatively, cut up veggies and use as a dip. (I sprinkled a little paprika on top for the photo.)
Erica wrote on January 11, 2010
I just made a resolution to add more of this to my food! Never thought to add it to a dip.
polly raichert wrote on January 10, 2010
I’ve been hearing about tumeric recently and started taking it as a supplement last month. Mayo has done trials using it and so far every result is amazing for preventing, shrinking and curing cancer with no side affects, although they tell you to not start taking it until they have finished their studies. incredible! thanks for providing a recipe. any classes coming up?
Eco Mama wrote on January 10, 2010
I saw it too and got excited to hear the plant-centric diet mode on mainstream tv. I try to use Tumeric often but sometimes forget, I grabbed my jar and put it in front of my other spices to remind me.
Beautiful photo!
xo
Eco Mama
Nikki wrote on January 10, 2010
Awesome info! I had no idea that Tumeric has so many healing properties. I’ll be incorporating more of this into my diet.
ramona wrote on January 10, 2010
hm. must try this, but have to find something else for the coconuts. have none avaible here. beautyful photo!
Serenity wrote on January 10, 2010
I use tumeric to color foods and in liue of saphron which is a $grip! I cannot really taste tumeric when used alone for a spice.
joanna wrote on January 10, 2010
Wow! This looks yummy AND beautiful!