Ginger is an indispensable spice in every family’s kitchen. In addition to its ability to remove the fishy smell of meat and fish, it is also considered a precious medicinal herb, effective in treating colds, heatstroke, motion sickness, warming the body, and preventing vomiting.
However, ginger tends to sprout, shrink, or even rot if stored for too long. Rotten ginger produces toxins harmful to the human body. With the following simple tips, you can keep ginger for several months, or even half a year, without worrying about spoilage.
There are many ways to store ginger for up to six months without spoilage. (Photo: Sohu)
Store ginger with rice
After purchasing, clean the ginger with water and let it air dry completely. Then, take some rice and place it in a box or bag, burying the ginger directly in the rice to keep it fresh for longer.
Rice creates a dry environment, and the starch in the rice will coat the ginger, preventing direct contact with air. By being placed in a dry environment, the ginger will be protected from mold and can be used for an extended period.
Store ginger in sand
Sand helps reduce air circulation and water evaporation, aiding in long-term ginger preservation. This method is also simple: prepare a small flower pot or plastic tub, fill it with sand, and bury the purchased ginger roots in the sand, covering them completely.
It is important to note that with this method, you should not wash the ginger before storage as it may affect its quality. The dry environment provided by the sand will keep the ginger fresh for several months.
To keep ginger fresh, store it in a dry environment. (Photo: Sohu)
Refrigerate ginger
To prolong the shelf life of ginger, you can store it in the refrigerator, but avoid placing it directly in the cool compartment, as the high humidity can cause mold. Instead, opt for the freezer.
Before refrigerating, clean and thoroughly dry the ginger. If you prefer not to eat the skin, you can peel it, then cut the ginger into small slices. After cutting, ensure the ginger is completely dry before placing it in a box or bag, sealing it tightly, and storing it in the freezer. When needed, simply take out the required amount for cooking, a convenient and straightforward process.
Alternatively, you can also chop the ginger into small pieces, sufficient for a single use, before storing them in the freezer.
Store ginger in saltwater
Soaking ginger in saltwater helps extend its shelf life. (Photo: Sohu)
After purchasing, clean the ginger and soak it in a dilute saltwater solution for about 20 minutes. Remove it from the saltwater and pat it dry with a paper towel. Then, wrap the ginger in plastic wrap and store it in a cool, dry place for gradual use.
According to VTC News