Lakadong turmeric is a variety grown in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, India. It is known for its deep golden color, bold earthy flavor, and a curcumin level commonly cited at 7–12%, compared with roughly 2–3% in everyday supermarket turmeric. If you have been searching for the real thing online, this guide covers what to look for and how to cook with it.
What Is Lakadong Turmeric?
Lakadong turmeric is a single-origin variety from the Jaintia Hills region of Meghalaya. Compared with common turmeric, it has a deeper orange-gold color, a stronger aroma, and a more pronounced, slightly peppery flavor, so a little goes a long way in the kitchen.
What to Look for When Buying Lakadong Turmeric Online
- A specific origin. Look for Meghalaya, and ideally the Jaintia Hills, named on the product page.
- A curcumin figure the seller can explain. Ask where the number comes from.
- Color and aroma. Real Lakadong is a deep golden-orange with a strong earthy scent. Pale, mild powder is a warning sign.
- A short ingredient list. It should say turmeric and nothing else.
- A seller who is clear about sourcing. The product page should say where it comes from and how it reaches you.
Our Golden Lakadong Turmeric
Golden Lakadong Turmeric is one of our six single-origin ingredients from Meghalaya, and most of our spices come direct from the farmer. It is a ground, one-ingredient spice for curries, teas, golden milk, soups, and scrambles.
Lakadong Turmeric in Action: Spiced Tofu Scramble
This tofu scramble is high in protein and full of fragrant spices. Golden Lakadong Turmeric gives it its deep golden color and earthy flavor. It makes a great weekend brunch, served on warm toast with fresh cilantro.
Ingredients
2 firm tofu blocks, drained and crumbled
1 medium onion, diced
2 Thai chilies, chopped (adjust for your spice preference)
1 tablespoon avocado oil (or oil of your choice)
2 teaspoons Golden Lakadong Turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon Warm Wild Long Pepper (ground)
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Toast (for serving)
Directions
Prep the tofu: Crumble the drained tofu into a bowl with your hands or a potato masher.
Spice it up: Add the dry spices (except the nutritional yeast) to the crumbled tofu and mix well to coat.
Sauté the base: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and chilies and sauté for 2 minutes, until softened.
Cook the tofu: Add the seasoned tofu to the pan. Mix well and cook, covered, for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finish: Stir in the nutritional yeast and cook for another 5 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve on toast. Hash browns and a cup of chai make great accompaniments.
Tips
For a drier scramble, cook the tofu a little longer after adding the nutritional yeast.
For a milder version, use fewer chilies or a less spicy variety.
Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
Top with avocado, salsa, or your favorite hot sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is Lakadong turmeric different from regular turmeric?
It is a specific variety from Meghalaya with a deeper color, stronger aroma, and a curcumin level commonly cited at 7–12%, compared with about 2–3% in common turmeric. For more on this, see our Lakadong vs regular turmeric guide.
2. Can I use Lakadong turmeric in cooking?
Yes. It works in curries, teas, golden milk, soups, rice dishes, and smoothies. Start with a small amount, since the flavor is bold.
3. How do I know it is real Lakadong turmeric?
Look for a named origin (Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya), a deep golden-orange color, a strong earthy aroma, and a seller who is open about sourcing.
4. Is Lakadong turmeric sold on Amazon?
Some sellers list it on marketplaces. Buying from a seller who names the origin and explains the sourcing, like our shop, makes it easier to know what you are getting.
5. Where can I buy Golden Lakadong Turmeric?
Right here: Golden Lakadong Turmeric, plus our other single-origin superfoods and wholesale options for retailers.
