Ginger is an essential ingredient in the kitchen, but it can be challenging to store when bought in large quantities. Here are some methods for preserving ginger to keep it fresh for several months.
When selecting ginger, choose medium-sized bulbs that feel heavy and firm. Avoid bulbs that are bruised, wrinkled, or show signs of mold.
Store in the refrigerator compartment.
Before storing in the refrigerator, ginger should be thoroughly washed to remove the surrounding soil and then allowed to dry. Wrap each ginger bulb tightly in silver foil or wrap it in a dry cloth and place it in an airtight ziplock bag, squeezing out all the air. This method of storing fresh ginger in the refrigerator can help keep fresh ginger for a long time without spoilage, preserving its fragrance.
Store in the freezer.
Ginger should be thoroughly washed, then sliced thinly or julienned. Place the ginger in a ziplock bag, removing as much air as possible, or in an airtight container with a lid. Store it in the freezer compartment for preservation. When you need a few pieces, you can use them directly without thawing. Ginger stored in the freezer will remain fresh and retain its distinctive aroma.
If you don’t have time to slice or julienne the ginger, you can wrap the cleaned ginger in a layer of plastic wrap and place it in the freezer.
Preserve by burying it in sand.
Pour dry and clean sand into a wide bowl or plate, bury the ginger in it, and keep it in a relaxed and well-ventilated place.
This storage method helps keep the ginger fresh for a long time without drying out.
Soaked in water preservation
Thoroughly wash the ginger and remove any dirt from the surface and parts that have turned black. Place the ginger in a container filled with water. Ensure the water covers the ginger completely, tightly close the lid, and store it in the refrigerator. Replace the water with fresh water once a week. This storage method can keep the ginger fresh for about a month.
Store ground ginger.
Ground ginger is a suitable ingredient for marinating certain dishes before cooking. To preserve ginger using this method, you can peel the ginger, cut it into small pieces, and then grind it into a paste. After that, put the ground ginger mixture into small ice trays and freeze until solid.
Whenever you need to use it, you can easily take out a sufficient amount without thawing it.
Crush into powder
It is also possible to sun-dry or dehydrate ginger and grind it into powder form. Afterward, please put it in a sealed glass container and store it in a cool place. When needed, take it out and use it.
Ginger powder still retains the maximum nutrients as well as the flavor of fresh ginger.
Soak in vinegar
With this method, it is recommended to use young ginger, wash it thoroughly, and slice it thinly. After squeezing it with salt, it is advisable to blanch the ginger in boiling water to reduce its spiciness. Remove the ginger, squeeze out excess water, and let it dry.
Boil a mixture of water, sugar, and vinegar in a ratio of 1:1:1. Cut the sliced ginger and place it in a clean, dry glass jar, then pour the boiled mixture of sugar, water, and vinegar into it. Leave it at room temperature for a few days before placing it in the refrigerator.
This preservation method maintains the freshness and natural aroma of ginger and allows you to use the soaking liquid. Consuming the water mixture and nibbling on the vinegar-soaked ginger can help burn excess fat, aid in weight loss, and effectively prevent hair loss.
Dry
You can use the drying method to preserve ginger for a more extended period with a large quantity.
Clean the ginger thoroughly, let it dry, slice it into thin pieces, and then sun-dry it or use an oven to dry it. Dried ginger can be stored for a long time without losing its aroma, taste, or spicy characteristics of fresh ginger.
Ginger is undoubtedly essential in every kitchen, but storing it can be challenging, especially when bought in large quantities. Fortunately, various methods exist to preserve ginger and keep it fresh for several months.
From refrigerating and freezing to burying in sand or soaking in water, each technique offers a unique way to maintain the flavor and aroma of this versatile spice.
If you want to stock up on ginger, why not head to your nearest Farm to Palms supermarket? We offer a wide range of high-quality ginger products that elevate your culinary creations.
Take advantage of the opportunity to enhance your dishes with the wonderful flavors of ginger by visiting Farm to Palms today!