Ginger is a staple ingredient in many kitchens, known for its bold flavour and health benefits. But once you’ve cut into that fresh ginger root, how do you keep it fresh and ready for your next recipe? Whether you use ginger in savoury dishes or sweet treats, knowing how to store it properly will help you make the most of this versatile spice.
Understanding Ginger
Ginger is an underground stem called a rhizome, not a root. It has a firm texture and a distinct flavour, making it essential in a variety of dishes. Ginger is used worldwide, especially in Asian dishes, and offers nutritional benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties that can help with joint pain and the common cold.
Choosing Fresh Ginger
When buying ginger, look for firm, smooth skin without any wrinkles or soft spots. Fresh ginger should feel dense and have a spicy aroma. Avoid ginger that looks shrivelled or has any moisture, as it will spoil quickly. If you see ginger sprouting, it’s old and less potent.
Removing the Outer Peel of Unpeeled Ginger
Before storing, you may want to peel your ginger. Here are a few methods:
Knife Method: Hold the ginger firmly and carefully slice off the skin with a small paring knife.
Spoon Method: Use the edge of a spoon to scrape off the skin. This method is safer and helps you avoid cutting too much of the ginger away.
Vegetable Peeler: A vegetable peeler works well for larger pieces of ginger.
Storing Ginger in the Refrigerator
To keep your ginger fresh for a longer time, the refrigerator is your best option. Here’s how:
Wrap It Up: Wrap the cut ginger in a paper towel to absorb any moisture.
Use a Plastic Bag: Place the wrapped ginger in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container.
Crisper Drawer: Store the ginger in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This keeps it at a stable temperature and humidity level.
When stored properly in the refrigerator, fresh ginger can last for about two to three weeks.
Storing Ginger in the Freezer
For even longer storage, freezing is a great option. Follow these steps:
Peel and Slice: Peel the ginger and cut it into slices or chunks.
Pre-Freeze: Place the ginger pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. This prevents the pieces from sticking together.
Transfer to Container: Once frozen, transfer the ginger pieces to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date.
Store: Store the container in the freezer. Frozen ginger can last up to six months.
You can use frozen ginger directly from the freezer. There’s no need to thaw it before adding it to your dishes.
Preserve Ginger: More Ways to Store Fresh Ginger
Ginger Paste: Blend or grate peeled ginger in a food processor until smooth. Store the paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator (fridge) or freeze it in ice cube trays.
Ginger in Alcohol: Preserve ginger (pickle) by storing it in vodka or dry sherry. This method keeps ginger fresh and adds a unique flavour to dishes.
Tips for Using Stored Ginger Root
Savoury Dishes: Add fresh or frozen ginger to Asian dishes, soups, and stir-fries for a burst of flavour.
Baking: Use ginger in cookies, cakes, and other baked goods for a spicy kick.
Beverages: Infuse hot water with ginger slices for a soothing tea.
Summary: How to Store Fresh Ginger
This blog has given you many suggestions on how to store fresh ginger that has been cut. Storing fresh ginger properly ensures you always have this essential ingredient ready for your cooking needs. Whether you refrigerate it, freeze it, or turn it into a ginger paste, these methods help maintain the ginger's bold flavour and nutritional benefits. Remember to choose fresh ginger with a firm texture and store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for as long as possible.
To find out the health benefits of ginger read my blog 17 Great Health Benefits of Ginger.
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