Did you know that properly preparing your ginger can significantly impact its culinary value and overall quality? If you're beginning your wellness journey, it's time to tap into the tremendous potential of this versatile and nutritious root. But first, you should become familiar with the correct techniques for chopping and preparing fresh ginger root.
Key Takeaways
- Ginger is a root that has numerous health benefits and a spicy, earthy flavor.
- It's important to use fresh ingredients. Buy ginger that is firm and taut, and do not buy ginger that is floppy, discolored, or shriveled.
- You can store ginger in the refrigerator or freezer. Leave the skin on the ginger when storing ginger, which will prolong its shelf-life.
- Before chopping your ginger, always peel the skin using a vegetable peeler or spoon.
From soothing homemade tea to refreshing jamu tonics, there are many ways to use ginger root for better health. Keep reading, and we'll tell you how to prepare and chop your ginger, as well as some easy at-home recipes.
See Related: 7 Of The Healthiest Spices In The World
What Is Ginger?
Ginger is a flowering plant native to Asia. The root of the plant has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and it boasts significant health benefits. It has a spicy and earthy flavor that adds a peppery punch to many dishes.
Ginger isn't just a delicious addition to your favorite savory meals. There has been plenty of research on the wellness benefits of ginger.
For starters, it is known that ginger has excellent anti-inflammatory properties that can support gut health and reduce skin redness (which is why we use it in our Sweet Black Tea and Ginger Oil-Free Moisturizer.)
Ginger has been used to relieve nausea, reduce bloating, and alleviate morning sickness. It is also rich in antioxidants that protect cell health and manage free radicals.
Bonus: Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Latte Recipe (Golden Milk)
How to Choose Ginger
Before you even prepare your ginger for consumption, you need to buy fresh ginger from the store. It's best to shop for ginger at international markets, as they typically replenish their stock of roots like ginger and turmeric more frequently.
Choose ginger roots that are firm, taut, and slightly shiny. Avoid ginger roots that are shriveled, floppy, discolored, or lightweight.
How to Store Ginger
It is best to store ginger in the refrigerator or freezer. Leave the peel on if possible, which will greatly prolong its shelf life.
To store in the refrigerator, place your ginger root in an airtight bag and remove excess air. Place it in the crisper drawer, where it can stay for two to three days.
To store in the freezer, wrap the ginger root tightly in plastic wrap (you can freeze ginger after it has already been peeled, chopped, or grated). It can stay in the freezer for up to six months.
How to Prepare, Peel, & Chop Ginger
Before chopping or grating your fresh ginger, you need to peel it. This is the most important step when preparing ginger root.
How to Peel Ginger
Before peeling your ginger, first wash it with warm water. You can use a brush to remove any stubborn dirt clinging to the skin. You can peel ginger using either a vegetable peeler or a spoon (the latter is a great kitchen hack if you don't have a vegetable peeler handy.)
Hold the ginger firmly with one hand and gently scrape the edge of the spoon against the ginger to peel the skin. Hold the bowl of the spoon, not the handle.
Remember - only peel the ginger if you are about to use it. When storing ginger, it stays fresh for much longer if the skin is still intact.
How to Chop Ginger
Ginger is a fibrous root, and the fibers run parallel to the root itself. You'll need to chop or slice your ginger perpendicular to the fibers. Slice your ginger with a knife or mandoline into thin coins.
To julienne ginger, stack two or three coins at a time and slice them into thin matchstick pieces.
To chop ginger, dice your julienne pieces into small pieces.
To grate ginger, use a garlic grater or a mincer to create a thick paste.
How to Use Ginger: Recipes, Skincare, & More
Now that your fresh ginger is peeled and prepared, it's time to use it in the kitchen. This spicy root can be used in beverages, stews, or main dishes. Even a small pinch of powdered ginger is enough to transform a bland meal into a tasty indulgence!
Here are a few of our favorite recipes with ginger. Some of them use fresh ginger, while others use powdered ginger. If you don't have any fresh ginger on hand but still want to enjoy this earthy rhizome, you can try swapping fresh ginger for powdered ginger.
Feel free to experiment with your own favorite recipes to create new and exciting dishes.
Keep in mind that you can also use ginger on your skin. It's been used in wellness rituals and skincare routines for centuries. Ginger has many beauty benefits and can be used to even skin tone, reduce excess oil, minimize redness, and brighten the skin.
Here are a few of our skincare and wellness product offerings that contain ginger. We believe in the healing power of this ancient root, which is why we include it in many of our skincare offerings. If you want glowing and healthy skin, it's time to incorporate this research-backed ingredient into your daily routine!
The Bottom Line
From baked goods to savory dishes, there are many ways of using ginger. This root has a spicy flavor and rich aroma that make it a great addition to anything from pumpkin pie to stir fries. Even if you don't want to eat ginger, you can use it in your skincare routine for bright and glowing skin!
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Juara Skincare incorporates ancient rituals with Western skincare science, creating the ultimate beauty experience. We aim to transport you from the mundane to the extraordinary with our exotic ingredients, intoxicating scents, and powerful, skin-improving formulas. All of our products are nutrient-rich and botanically based. We are proud to be certified cruelty-free. Get the latest skin care tips and info on Juara products by following us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
