Ginger is a root vegetable that produces a fragrant smell. It is commonly used to season Indian and Asian cuisine. Ginger can be used in tea and in making candy. Pickled ginger is often served alongside sushi. It smells and tastes amazing in stir fry sauces, and there are many more ways to use it.
But first you need to know how to peel, chop and store ginger. Follow this pro tutorial with each step laid out so that you can get to using it in your favorite food and drink.
Step #1. Gather Items
Picking your fresh ginger is an important step. You want a piece that isn’t too wrinkly or thick-skinned and you want to avoid a ginger root that has any mold on it. It should be firm with thinner skin that can easily be peeled with your nail.
In order to chop ginger, you will need:
- a piece of ginger root
- small spoon
- knife – a flat cut paring knife (sheep’s foot) works great
- cutting board
Step #2. Clean the Ginger
Clean the ginger root under running water, making sure you remove any leftover dirt.
Step #3. Remove Skin
Using a small spoon, remove the skin of the ginger. It should come off easily.
Step #4. Cut into Long Strips
Cut the peeled ginger root into long slices.
Step #5. Chop
Chop the slices into thin cubes. Enjoy!
Sample Preparation
Sweet & sour marinade.
You can make an easy marinade for fish, pork, chicken or other meat by mixing the chopped ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil and a pinch of honey. It can be a great addition to a stir fry.
- You can also add the chopped ginger directly to stir fries, rice and soups.
- Steep it in hot water for a ginger tea.
- Try adding it to your baking, such as in muffins and breads.
- Use it to infuse a simple syrup.
Storage
- Fridge Storage: If you don’t plan on using your ginger immediately after cutting it, you can blot it with paper towels and then place in a sealed plastic bag. It is important to push the air out. You can store your sealed ginger for up to 1 to 2 weeks in your refrigerator. To extend that time up to a few months, you can preserve it in dry sherry or wine.
- Freezer Storage: You can also freeze your chopped ginger. To do this, place your ginger in small portions on a parchment lined baking sheet. Place the tray in the freezer and let the ginger freeze solid. After the ginger is frozen, remove the portions from the baking sheet and place in a freezer bag. To use, you can let it thaw for a few minutes or add directly to hot dishes that you’re preparing. Use immediately after thawing.
What is your favorite use of freshly chopped ginger? Do you have any storage tips? Let me know in the comments!
How to Chop Ginger
Ingredients
- 1 piece ginger root
Instructions
- Clean the ginger root under running water, making sure you remove any leftover dirt.
- Using a small spoon, remove the skin of the ginger. It should come off easily.
- Cut the peeled ginger root into long slices.
- Chop the slices into small cubes. The chopped ginger is ready to use!
Equipment
Notes
- Picking ginger: Picking your fresh ginger is an important step. You want a piece that isn’t too wrinkly or thick-skinned and you want to avoid a ginger root that has any mold on it. It should be firm with thinner skin that can easily be peeled with your nail.
- Fridge Storage: If you don’t plan on using your ginger immediately after cutting it, you can blot it with paper towels and then place in a sealed plastic bag. It is important to push the air out. You can store your sealed ginger for up to 1 to 2 weeks in your refrigerator. To extend that time up to a few months, you can preserve it in dry sherry or wine.
- Freezer Storage:You can also freeze your chopped ginger. To do this, place your ginger in small portions on a parchment lined baking sheet. Place the tray in the freezer and let the ginger freeze solid. After the ginger is frozen, remove the portions from the baking sheet and place in a freezer bag. To use, you can let it thaw for a few minutes or add directly to hot dishes that you’re preparing. Use immediately after thawing.
Nutrition
Nutrition information on In the Kitch is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. It may not include toppings and/or sauces.
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