Turmeric is variously known as Haldi, Manjal, Arishna - loosely translated as 'the yellow spice' across every region in India. Far out in the hills of Easten India, in the state of Meghalaya, it is known by it's eponymous name - Lakadong. 

Grown only in a very small valley in the west Jainitia Hills at the base of a village that gives the spice it's name, this variety of turmeric, or should we say, as the locals do, Lakadong, is prized for it's curcumin content. Often exceeding 7%, it has captured the imagination because of turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties.

In Meghalaya itself, Lakadong turmeric is renowned for its exceptional quality beyond it's potent curcumin content; this golden spice is deeply embedded in the culinary traditions of the various tribes and regions of Meghalaya, India.

Explore how Lakadong Turmeric has become a household staple in Jaintia Hills and the bustling markets of Shillong, Meghalaya India weaving its way into the hearts and kitchens of the people.

Lakadong Turmeric is an integral part of daily life. Local households cherish the spice not only for its vibrant color but also for its robust flavor, which elevates the taste of traditional dishes. Passed down through generations, the use of Lakadong Turmeric in local kitchens is a testament to its cultural significance.

Walk into any household in Jaintia Hills, and you'll likely find a jar of Lakadong turmeric adorning the kitchen shelves. Locals incorporate this spice into various dishes, from hearty curries to refreshing beverages. Lakadong turmeric's distinctive taste adds a layer of depth to the cuisine, making it an indispensable ingredient in the preparation of both everyday meals and special occasions.

A few dishes that are made with Lakadong turmeric in traditional Meghalaya cusine include:

• Jadoh: Jadoh is Meghalayan Biryani. An adaptation of the traditional meat-based Khasi dish, Jadoh - To prepare this aromatic dish, rice is cooked with Lakadong, bay leaves, and a variety of spices. It's usually mixed with vegetables like carrots, beans, and peas. 
• Tungrymgbai: Go ahead. That isn't that hard to pronounce! Think fermented soy beans and Lakadong turmeric and other spices and you have a spicy winter savory food that is the original Khasi (people of Meghalaya) dish.
• Sabzis: These are your basic vegetable curries and stews. The locals add a dash of Lakadong turmeric as a base spice to every dish.

As Lakadong Turmeric makes its way from the fields of Jaintia Hills to the homes of locals and the markets of Shillong, it weaves a narrative of community, tradition, and pride. The spice isn't just a commodity; it's a symbol of the region's agricultural prowess and the close-knit relationships formed between farmers, suppliers, and consumers.

The widespread popularity of Lakadong Turmeric in Jaintia Hills and Shillong speaks to its exceptional quality and deep cultural significance. Living Roots takes pride in sourcing this extraordinary spice directly from smallhold farmers in the Jaintia Hills, where it is grown in small batches during a specific season each year. Despite attempts to transplant the turmeric rhizomes, the unique qualities of Lakadong Turmeric have proven difficult to replicate elsewhere, making this spice truly special.

Living Roots invites you to experience the essence of Meghalaya through the golden hues of Lakadong Turmeric—a spice that transcends boundaries and brings people together through the joy of flavorful traditions.

Key Points:

• Direct Farm-to-Table Sourcing : We obtain our Lakadong Turmeric directly from dedicated smallhold farmers in the Jaintia Hills, ensuring unmatched quality and authenticity.
• Exclusive Cultivation : This turmeric is cultivated in limited quantities during a specific season each year, with its unique qualities proving difficult to replicate elsewhere.
• Cultural Significance : Lakadong Turmeric is more than just a spice; it is an integral part of Meghalaya's culinary heritage, cherished for its ability to bring people together through its rich flavors and deep-rooted traditions.