Tumeric is actually very mild in flavor. It adds quite a nice yellow coloring, so it is used to "enhance" other spices. I add tumeric to things that are fried in butter to give it a small flavor bounce, but a great deal of color.
I made a two crust apple pie this evening (I may even eat it all before it goes bad) and my secret ingredient is a pinch of chili powder with cinnamon and sugar over the apples and dusting the crust.