Ginger is one of the most versatile and beneficial ingredients you can have in your kitchen. Whether you’re using it for cooking, brewing tea, or even for its health benefits, this root spice adds warmth, depth, and a host of health benefits to your diet. I love keeping it in the freezer to quickly add flavor to dishes while reducing waste.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to use ginger in cooking, its health benefits, the differences between fresh and ground ginger, and the best ways to store it for maximum freshness.
Why Use Ginger?
This spice is more than just a seasoning—it’s a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition. Used in cuisines around the world, it is known for its slightly spicy, zesty taste that enhances both sweet and savory plant-based dishes. Beyond the kitchen, it offers numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, and boosting immunity.
Cooking with Ginger: Fresh vs. Ground
One of the first things to understand when using this ingredient is the difference between fresh and ground forms.
Fresh Ginger
Fresh ginger root is widely available and has a bright, slightly citrusy aroma. It’s commonly used in stir-fries, soups, teas, and marinades. When cooking with fresh ginger:
- Peel it first: Use a spoon to scrape off the thin skin easily.
- Grate or mince it: This helps release its potent flavor.
- Add it at the right time: For a strong, fresh taste, add it at the end of cooking. For a more mellow flavor, cook it earlier.
Ground Ginger
Ground ginger is dried and powdered, offering a more concentrated and slightly different flavor than fresh ginger. It’s commonly used in baking, spice blends, and beverages like chai tea. When substituting ground for fresh, use 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger for every 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger.
How to Store Ginger
To keep the root fresh and flavorful, proper storage is key.
- Refrigerator: Store fresh in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag with the skin intact. It will last up to 3 weeks.
- Dried and Ground: Store the ground spice in a cool, dark place in an airtight container to maintain its potency.
- Freezer: You can grate the frozen root directly into dishes. Just keep the whole root in a zip lock bag in the freezer.
Pro Tip: Freezing the root (and similar foods like turmeric root) allows you to grate them straight from the freezer without the hassle of peeling and chopping every time. This trick also helps reduce waste, since you won’t have to throw out unused, shriveled pieces. I use this grater, and it works great!
Health Benefits
Beyond its culinary uses, this root is known for its impressive health benefits:
- Aids Digestion: Helps relieve nausea, bloating, and indigestion.
- Reduces Inflammation: Its natural anti-inflammatory properties can help with muscle pain and arthritis.
- Boosts Immunity: Has antibacterial and antiviral properties that help fight colds and infections.
- Supports Weight Loss: May help increase metabolism and reduce appetite.
Using Ginger in Cooking
Now that we understand the different forms, let’s explore various ways to incorporate this root into your plant-based meals.
1. In Stir-Fries
This spice is a staple in Asian cuisine, adding a warm, slightly spicy flavor to stir-fried vegetables and tofu. Simply grate fresh ginger and sauté it with your other ingredients.
2. In Soups and Broths
A small piece of the root adds depth to broths and soups. Try adding slices to miso soup, lentil soup, or a spicy coconut curry.
3. Tea
One of the easiest ways to enjoy this ingredient is as a soothing tea. Here’s a simple recipe:
- Boil 2 cups of water.
- Add 1 tablespoon of freshly sliced ginger.
- Simmer for 5-10 minutes, then strain.
- Add maple syrup or lemon to taste.
4. In Smoothies and Juices
For a refreshing and healthy kick, add a small piece of fresh ginger to your morning smoothie or juice. It pairs well with citrus fruits, carrots, and apples.
5. Baking
Ground ginger is a key ingredient in cookies, cakes, and muffins. Try adding it to gingerbread, spiced banana bread, or even pumpkin pie for extra warmth.
6. Marinades and Dressings
This spice works well in marinades for tofu, tempeh, or plant-based proteins. Combine the freshly grated root with soy sauce, garlic, and maple syrup for a delicious glaze. It also enhances salad dressings.
Recipes with Ginger
Here are some of my favorite recipes that include this spice. They are all plant based and full of flavor. I hope you like them as much as I do!
Ginger is an incredibly versatile ingredient that enhances both flavor and health. Whether you’re cooking with fresh ginger, adding ground ginger to baked goods, or making soothing tea, there are countless ways to enjoy this amazing spice. By understanding how to use ginger, store it properly, and incorporate it into different plant-based dishes, you can make the most of its benefits and delicious taste.
