Fresh turmeric (Curcuma longa) is the underground rhizome of a tropical plant in the ginger family. Closely related to ginger, it has a thin brown skin and vibrant golden-orange flesh with a warm, earthy flavor, subtle bitterness, and mild peppery notes. Widely used in Indian, Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines, fresh turmeric adds bright flavor and color to curries, soups, stir-fries, teas, juices, and smoothies.

Like dried turmeric powder, fresh turmeric contains a family of polyphenols called curcuminoids, including curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin. It also contains aromatic essential oils and other naturally occurring plant compounds that contribute to its distinctive flavor and biological activity. Fresh turmeric is less concentrated than the dried powder because it contains a significant amount of water, but it offers a bright, fresh flavor that cannot be replicated by the dried spice.