White turmeric or zedoary is also an ancient spice, which is a rare sight in India. It is a member of the ginger and turmeric family, but its smell is different. Due to its mango-like smell, it is also known as Amba Turmeric. It has warm and ginger-like flavour.
Generally, in the Indian kitchen, white haldi is used fresh, it is even pickled or sliced into thin rounds and served atop green salads. In Indonesia, White Turmeric is cut into pieces and dehydrated, oven or air-dried and powdered for use as a dried spice. In larger quantities, the powder is used as a substitute for arrowroot or barley. In Thailand, young roots are used as a vegetable and in curry pastes.
Benefits: White turmeric can be used to resolve digestive problems, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. It may also help aid flatulence, irregular bowel movement, indigestion, etc. White turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that help combat inflammation, especially for people suffering from arthritis.
Fresh White Turmeric can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The peeled root can be frozen for up to 6 months.
