Turmeric

This is now thought to be a cancer-prevention agent. Turmeric lends a bright yellow colour to dishes it is used in, similar to the deep red hue produced by dried chillies. It has an earthy, mustardy flavour. Peel the skin and slice into fine matchsticks before blending into spice paste (rempah). The best way to skin turmeric is to use the back of a teaspoon to scrape off the skin.