Curcuma longa L.
Although in appearance the plant may be similar to ginger, the yellow powder extracted from the dried and ground rhizomes, used as a condiment, is more associated, in Portuguese, with saffron (it is also known as açafrão-da-índia, açafrão-da-terra and açafroa), although there is no botanical link between the two species. Quintessential in some curry mixtures characteristic of the Indian cuisine, turmeric can be used on its own for seasoning and flavoring scrambled eggs, rice, beef, chicken, and fish dishes, broths, and other preparations, and to add color to breads and cakes. The municipality of Maria Rosa, in Goiás, accounts for about 90% of the turmeric production in that state. The harvest takes place between June and September.
