Turmeric is a pantry staple, but not all turmeric is the same. If you only know the usual jar from the supermarket, meet Lakadong turmeric: a deep golden-orange variety from the hills of Meghalaya, India. Here is how it compares with regular turmeric on origin, color, flavor, and curcumin level, especially if you are looking for it in the USA.
What Is Lakadong Turmeric?
Lakadong turmeric is a single-origin variety grown in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya. It is prized for its vibrant golden-orange color, its strong earthy aroma, and a curcumin level commonly cited at 7–12%. Regular turmeric typically contains about 2–3% curcumin.
Key Differences Between Lakadong and Regular Turmeric
- Curcumin level. Curcumin is the pigment that gives turmeric its color. Lakadong is commonly cited at 7–12%, versus about 2–3% for regular turmeric.
- Color. Lakadong is a deeper golden-orange. Regular turmeric is often a paler yellow.
- Aroma and flavor. Lakadong is stronger, with an earthy, slightly peppery, mildly bitter taste. Regular turmeric tends to be milder.
- Origin. Regular turmeric can come from many regions. Lakadong comes from one place: the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya.
Lakadong Turmeric in the USA
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, shipped from our shop in the USA.
Cooking with Lakadong Turmeric
Lakadong is a kitchen workhorse. Because the color and flavor are bold, start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Use it in:
- Lattes and teas
- Curries and dals
- Smoothies and golden morning shots
- Soups and stews
- Rice, eggs, and tofu scrambles
Looking for inspiration? Try our golden milk recipe, our Golden Turmeric Ginger Soup, or the chutney below.
Cilantro/Mint Chutney with Golden Lakadong Turmeric & Long Pepper
Fresh herbs meet warm spices in this quick chutney, made with Warm Wild Long Pepper and Golden Lakadong Turmeric.
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch cilantro
- 1 bunch mint
- 1/3 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/3 tsp chaat masala (optional)
- 1/3 tsp black salt
- 1/4 tsp Golden Lakadong Turmeric
- 1/3 tsp Warm Wild Long Pepper, for some heat
- 1/4 chopped onion
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1/2 lime
- Salt to taste
- 1/3 tsp sugar (optional)
How to make it:
- Add all ingredients to a blender with a splash of water.
- Blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust the salt, lime, or spice level.
Serve with Indian breads, rice bowls, or as a dip for snacks. The full recipe is on our Cilantro & Mint Chutney page.
How to Identify Authentic Lakadong Turmeric
Many brands use the Lakadong name loosely. Here is what to check:
- A named origin: Meghalaya, ideally the Jaintia Hills
- A curcumin figure the seller can explain
- A deep golden-orange color and an earthy scent
- A slightly coarse, natural texture rather than an overly fine, pale powder
For a deeper look at curcumin numbers, see Why Two Jars of Turmeric Can Be Wildly Different.
Final Thoughts
Compared side by side, the difference is easy to see and taste: deeper color, stronger aroma, and a single, named origin. At Humble Origins Superfoods we bring this golden spice from the hills of Meghalaya to your kitchen.
Order your Golden Lakadong Turmeric today.
FAQs
1. What is the curcumin level in Lakadong turmeric?
It is commonly cited at 7–12%, compared with about 2–3% in regular turmeric.
2. Can I use Lakadong turmeric in everyday cooking?
Yes. It works in teas, curries, soups, smoothies, rice, and scrambles. Use a little less than you would of regular turmeric, since the color and flavor are bolder.
3. Why is Lakadong turmeric called a superfood?
The word is a popular label for a nutrient-rich, flavorful ingredient. What sets Lakadong apart is its origin in Meghalaya, its deep color, and its bold flavor.
4. How do I know I am buying genuine Lakadong turmeric?
Check for origin details (Meghalaya), a curcumin figure the seller can explain, and a deep golden-orange color. Avoid overly fine, pale powders.
5. Is Lakadong turmeric available in the USA?
Yes. Humble Origins Superfoods ships Golden Lakadong Turmeric across the USA.
