Which spice gives Indian curry its characteristic yellow color?

Turmeric is the spice that gives many Indian curries their characteristic yellow color.

Turmeric comes from the rhizome of Curcuma longa, a plant related to ginger. It is usually dried and ground into a bright yellow-orange powder. Its color comes mainly from curcuminoids, especially curcumin, which also contributes a mildly bitter, earthy flavor.

Turmeric is a principal ingredient in many curry-powder blends, but “curry” is not one fixed recipe. Some curries may contain little turmeric or none at all, while other dishes use it generously for both color and flavor. Saffron can also add yellow-gold color, but it is much more expensive and has a distinct floral aroma. Paprika tends to produce red or orange tones, while cumin mainly contributes fragrance and warmth.