Turmeric is a spice obtained from the dried and powdered roots of the turmeric plant. It is best known for its bright golden-yellow color, which comes from the active ingredient curcumin. Ground turmeric tastes mild and slightly bitter, with a warm, earthy aroma reminiscent of a blend of ginger and orange. Far milder than ginger, its primary function is to create a subtle, warm base and impart a deep golden color to dishes. In the kitchen, turmeric powder is an essential ingredient in almost every curry mix and is widely used in South Asian, Indian, and North African dishes. It is used in curries, dals (lentil dishes), rice dishes such as pilaf, soups, and marinades. Due to its intense coloring power, it is also used as a natural dye. Outside of the kitchen, it is also valued in medicinal uses and is a key ingredient in "golden milk."