Dried turmeric has a slightly bitter and sour taste, is mildly spicy, and has an earthy character. Delicious in stews, sauces, and soups. But also in spice blends for fish and meat, turmeric is a good addition. Turmeric is responsible for the yellow color of curry powder and is also used to color dishes, as a substitute for saffron. Turmeric is also known by the originally Malay name koenjit.