Made from the dried finger of turmeric plants, turmeric extract is a yellow powder used for cooking. It has an earthy, nutty aroma and slightly bitter taste. The extract is commonly used as a coloring agent in foods, medicines and cosmetics and is also used as a spice.Turmeric is probably the most famous spice in India. It can be used fresh or dried. Dry turmeric has a stronger earthier flavor and is much more commonly used in recipes. Fresh turmeric is usually only available during the spring months and is best used for garnishing certain dishes and not for actual cooking.The yellow color turmeric powder has a hot, bitter and pungent taste with an acrid odor. Fresh turmeric root produces a deep orange-yellow colored powder.