Best Turmeric Substitutes

If you have a craving for an exotic dish, but can’t find this spice, we’ve got you covered. There are plenty of turmeric substitutes you can try out.

Did you start your meal planning this week and put a new recipe with a new spice you just simply don’t have the in the spice cabinet? Or did you put it on the grocery list and your local store didn’t carry it?

Turmeric is an earthy spice with a slightly bitter taste that’s common in Asian cuisine and part of the ginger family. It adds a little musky flare with a kick of heat. Still, it’s not always available at some local stores.

We’ve compiled a list of nine spices that work well as stand-ins. Let’s take a look at some delicious turmeric substitutes that you can use.

📌 What Is Turmeric?

Turmeric is a common spice with a specific flavor profile. It has an earthy, slightly sweet, tang that tickles your tongue. It also has a warming effect that coats your entire mouth with its faintly peppery aftertaste.

The flavor isn’t the only distinctive characteristic. Turmeric adds a beautiful, deep yellow color to any dish you add it to. This is due to a chemical called curcumin.

Not only does curcumin add a bold splash of color, but it also has various health benefits. In addition, it’s what gives mustard its iconic yellow shade.

There are other nutrients and beneficial substances in turmeric. This is probably why traditional medicine such as Ayurveda relies on turmeric for its medicinal properties.

Just a tiny pinch of turmeric can completely transform a dish. It’ll change the flavor, color, and aroma of whatever you’re cooking.

We have to adapt and make substitutions to recipes all the time and often reference our Cooking and Baking Substitution Guide (FREEBIE) printable.

📎 Fresh vs Ground

When you go to the grocery store, usually you can find turmeric as a fresh root in the produce department, or as a powder in the spice aisle. The main difference between the two is water content.

It’s easiest to find in the spice aisle when they have the spices organized alphabetically. If you aren’t finding it that way, look at the SMALLEST jars as this isn’t one that is as commonly used as oregano or basil.

To make turmeric powder, you can dry the root and then grind it. Without all the extra moisture, the powder’s flavor becomes much more intense. 

For this reason, it takes about four times the amount of raw turmeric to give you the same result as the powder.

To make your own ground turmeric powder: 1. Clean the root 2. Slice in thin slices 3. Place on the dehydrator trays and set for 140 degrees for 8-10 hours, depending on how thick they are cut.

Once you blend your own powder, you are ready to toss it into favorite savory dishes such as soups, stews, curries and rice dishes.

📍Overview of the Top Substitutes

Spice	Conversion (Turmeric:Substitute)
Raw Turmeric	4:1
Paprika	2:1
Mace	2:1
Saffron	4:1
Safflower	4:1
Annatto Seeds	2:1 (the seeds must be infused in oil first)
Yellow Mustard Seeds	2:1
Cumin Seeds	2:1
Ginger Powder	2:1
Garam Masala	4:1-2:1

🍳 Best Turmeric Substitutes

If you can’t find turmeric at your local store, or you simply don’t like the taste, you’ve come to the right place for alternatives.

PRO TIP: Look for this spice to be very inexpensive and in larger quantities at your local international grocery store.

Here’s a list of spices you can use instead of turmeric.

Paprika

To make paprika, dry and grind red bell peppers. This gives the seasoning a bit of heat and, of course, the signature orange-red color.

We love it for adding flavor to roasted or air-fried veggies such as summer squash, and zucchini, but also to season hamburger patties.

Both paprika and turmeric add a little sweetness and spiciness. However, that’s not where the similarities end.

The two spices also have a slightly musky flavor, so for the most part, they’re interchangeable. If you want to get as close to turmeric as possible, try smoked paprika.

Not only will paprika work in a pinch, but it’s likely you already have it in your pantry.

1/2 Teaspoon paprika = 1 Teaspoon turmeric

Mace

Many people don’t know about mace. This tasty spice is reminiscent of nutmeg, but it’s slightly less sweet. 

It has a complex flavor profile with hints of cinnamon and black pepper. Together, they create a spicy, earthy aftertaste.

Mace works well instead of turmeric. However, it lacks sweetness.

So, while the flavor may be similar, it’s not exact. To fix this, you can add a dash of paprika to your mace.

The combination of the two spices comes really close to matching turmeric’s flavor. You get the sweetness and color from paprika, and heat and earthiness from the mace.

If you ever bought a spice set, this is most likely in your set and you have ignored it all this time.

1/2 Teaspoon mace = 1 Teaspoon turmeric

Make sure to print out the Egg Substitution Printable {FREEBIE}, Whole Plant Substitutions Printable {FREEBIE}, Cooking and Baking Ingredient Substitution Printables {FREEBIE} for your Recipe Binder!

Saffron

Saffron is one of the most expensive spices on our list, although pretty easy to find in grocery stores.

Commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisines, saffron provides a subtle earthy flavor with a sweet aftertaste. This can mimic some of the flavors of turmeric. However, it clearly lacks the extra punch of heat.

If you like the flavor of turmeric, but not the heat, then saffron is the best alternative. Try it in this Instant Pot Spanish rice when you’re in need of a quick meal that can feed a crowd!

Not only is it milder than turmeric, but it can also match its color. Saffron gives your food a beautifully bright yellow hue.

This spice may not be budget-friendly, but you don’t need to use much of it. Saffron is incredibly potent and a small pinch may be all you need. Adding more than that may turn your dish overly sweet.

1/4 Teaspoon saffron = 1 Teaspoon turmeric

Safflower

If buying saffron sounds a but too expensive, try out safflower. Both spices have a similar effect on food.

You can use Safflower to add a yellow color to replace turmeric, but that’s where the similarities end.

Safflower is a lot more mild than saffron. It has a prominent nutty flavor and a distinct aroma. This spice is perfect if you’re trying to recreate the color of turmeric. Still, it does struggle with flavor. Adding a touch of red peppers can help bring it closer.

Another major difference is the price tag. Saffron is significantly more expensive than safflower.

On top of this, safflower also has some medicinal properties.

1/4 Teaspoon safflower = 1 Teaspoon turmeric

Annatto Seeds

Annatto seeds are hard to come by, made from achiote trees, but they’re excellent substitutes. When added to food, they give a nutty pepperiness with a sweet undertone.

This flavor profile matches that of turmeric almost exactly. In addition, annatto seeds also give your food a yellowish-orange hue.

The only issue with the seeds is you can’t use them straight out of the box. Most commonly, they are ground into a powder using a mortar and pestle and/or infused in oil.

Remember to use this sparingly to avoid overpowering your dish.

1/2 Teaspoon annato seeds = 1 Teaspoon turmeric

Yellow Mustard Seeds

When you hear mustard, you automatically think of the popular condiment. However, in this article, we’re talking about the seeds.

While the condiment is made from seeds, they do have different flavor profiles. The jar of mustard found in the store includes vinegar, lemon juice, and other spices to create that tangy treat.

Yellow mustard seeds, on the other hand, are sweet and spicy. This is what makes them an ideal alternative for turmeric. They also have a similar amber hue and earthy aroma.

The bright yellow seeds are usually ground and the flavor is quite strong, so just a little sprinkle can replace a whole teaspoon of turmeric.

To make your own mustard powder: Using a mortar and pestle, simple start grinding the mustard seeds with the mortar until it becomes a powder.

1/2 Teaspoon mustard powder = 1 Teaspoon turmeric

Cumin Seeds

Another good alternative is cumin seeds. Both spices taste incredibly similar.

You will typically find these dried and will need to crush them into a powder using a mortar and pestle or a food processor.

It has a sharp, earthy flavor with a nutty finish. The spice also coats your mouth with a savory, bitter tang.  It works amazingly well in our crockpot refried beans recipe!

However, cumin is a lot more potent than turmeric. So, you may need to adjust your ingredient proportions. Always start small and see how it works in your dish.

Cumin marries well with many other spices. This is why people use it in curries and soups.

1/2 Teaspoon cumin = 1 Teaspoon turmeric

Galangal Powder

The robust peppery flavor with hints of pine offered by galangal powder works really well to replace turmeric, especially for South Asian and Indian cuisine.

This root related to ginger has a woody, and spicy taste that’s more potent than turmeric’s. You’ll need to use much less galangal powder to substitute turmeric.

1/4 Teaspoon (or less) galangal powder = 1 Teaspoon turmeric

Ginger Powder

Ginger is another root with a powerful flavor. It has a sharp kick and a slightly tangy aftertaste that makes it pair well with various types of dishes such as fish, chicken, and healthy snacks like roasted pecans.

This isn’t an exact match for turmeric, but it can work in a pinch. The flavor profile of ginger is a tad more forward and in your face.

It works well because of the heat it adds to a dish. Ginger is incredibly similar to turmeric in terms of texture, too. They both come in root and powder form.

Ginger doesn’t dye your food yellow, though.

1/2 Teaspoon ginger powder = 1 Teaspoon turmeric

Turmeric Paste

This mix of turmeric powder, oil, cumin, black pepper, and other spices is not easily available. If you can find it, turmeric paste makes an excellent turmeric substitute!

The flavor and color it adds to dishes are quite similar to dried turmeric. One thing worth noting is turmeric paste is not as concentrated as dried so you’ll have to use more when substituting.

2 Teaspoons Turmeric Paste = 1 Teaspoon Turmeric

Garam Masala

Garam Masala is a mixture of spices that are common in Indian cuisine. The mixture contains different amounts of cumin, cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and black pepper. 

Each one of the spices adds a little extra flare to the mix. Together, they combine to create a flavor that’s pretty darned close to turmeric.

Garam Masala is much more potent. Because of all the extra spices, it can be overwhelming in many dishes, so start with small amounts and add slowly until you like the flavor of the dish.

In other words, Garam Masala is best in meals with few or no other added spices.

1/4-1/2 Teaspoon garam masala = 1 Teaspoon turmeric

Madras Curry Powder

When pulling out those Southeast Asia or Indian recipes, you want the heat with flavors of citrus and herbs that Madras curry powder fulfills.

It is a little different than regular curry powder in that it carries more heat from chili peppers and is a darker red.

Madras curry powder is a blend of turmeric powder and other spices such as cumin, chili powder, and fenugreek. Other curry powder varieties may contain different mixtures and spices, including coriander.

Considering the heat and intense flavor of Madras curry powder, make sure you use less at first and add more only if needed.

1/4 Teaspoon Madras curry powder = 1 Teaspoon turmeric

Our Best Ingredient Substitutions

All of your substitutes needs all in one handy reference spot! Comprehensive list substitutes here or to print off for your own menu binder. You to find an ingredient option that will allow you to not run out to the store or you may find a flavor combination you love even better than the original. Garlic Powder Substitute, Cojita Cheese Substitute, Parsley Substitute, Green Chilis Substitute, Italian Seasoning Substitute, Mustard Seed Substitute, Cilantro Substitute, Sriracha Substitute, White Pepper Substitute, Onion Powder Substitute, Five Spice Substitute, Turmeric Substitutes, White Wine Vinegar, Cardamon Substitute, Parsley Substitute, Cremini Mushroom Substitute, Egg Yolk, Leeks, Egg Wash, Coconut Cream, Tomato, Stewed Tomatoes, Coconut Sugar, Palm Sugar, Hoisin, Adobo, Chili Sauce, Oyster Sauce, Escarole, Watercress, Rice Wine Vinegar, Ketchup, Tomato Puree, Tomato Paste, Lemongrass, Chervil, Cheesecloth, Worcestershire Sauce, Fennel, Dark Soy Sauce.

🥘 Recipes With Turmeric

Vegan Stewed Chickpeas — This 30-minute recipe is perfect for anyone on the go. It’s fast and can keep you full for a long time.

Chicken Coconut Curry — This recipe takes a little longer to prepare. Still, the explosion of flavors is definitely worth the wait.

Air Fryer Squash — Roasted or air fried veggies go great with turmeric and there are plenty of other options to customize them!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

💡 Wrapping Up

If you’re looking for turmeric substitutes, there are many options for you to choose from. These spices include paprika, mace, saffron, and safflower.

Depending on the meal you’re preparing and what you have on hand, your choice will change. You can even create a combination of these spices to find your perfect turmeric match.

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