Ginger is an essential spice in any kitchen. Many dishes would fall flat without the zesty kick of ginger. Most people tend to store ginger in the refrigerator for convenience. However, ginger stored for prolonged periods in the fridge can become waterlogged, losing its distinctive aroma and freshness, and may even start to spoil.
Ginger can easily wilt and spoil if not stored properly.
There are numerous effective methods to keep ginger fresh and prevent it from sprouting or drying out. Improper storage of ginger in the refrigerator can also contaminate other foods.
Sand Storage Method:
Using sand requires a container, such as a jar or bottle, filled with dry sand. Bury the ginger in the sand and store the container in a cool, dry place. This technique helps keep ginger fresh and prevents wilting.
Ginger should be buried in dry sand to avoid moisture, which can cause sprouting.
Refrigerator Storage Method:
Before storing ginger in the fridge, wrap it in a layer of foil or soft cloth and place it in a ziplock bag in the crisper drawer.
Alternatively, save time by grating or pickling ginger and storing it in the refrigerator.
Grated or sliced ginger can be mixed with salt and sugar and stored in airtight jars.
For grated ginger: Wash and grate the ginger, then mix it with a small amount of salt, water, and a pinch of sugar. Transfer the mixture to a clean glass jar, seal it tight, and store it in the fridge. This method will give you ready-to-use grated ginger for up to six months to a year.
For pickled ginger: Enjoy the zesty essence of ginger by pickling it. Prepare a brine solution and soak the ginger for a few weeks. Store it in the refrigerator for long-term use.
Pickled Ginger with a Twist:
Add a splash of color by using beetroot, and thinly slice the ginger to create a delightful pink-hued, mildly sour, and tangy ginger delicacy to accompany your meals.
Make Ginger Powder:
Drying and grinding ginger into a powder is a convenient way to ensure a year-round supply. Besides sun-drying, you can use an oven or an air fryer to dehydrate the ginger, but finding the right temperature to preserve its flavor requires experimentation.
Drying and grinding ginger into a powder allows for year-round use.
Salt Brine Method:
The above methods provide long-term storage solutions, but sometimes, a recipe calls for fresh ginger slices with their unique flavor intact. Try this simple trick: Soak the ginger in a salt brine for about 15 minutes after rinsing it. Then, let it air-dry completely in a cool, ventilated area (avoid direct sunlight or oven drying).
Soaking ginger in a salt brine can help keep it fresh for up to six months.
Finally, wrap the ginger in plastic film or a ziplock bag and store it in a cool, dry place. This method does not require refrigeration, yet it keeps ginger fresh for an extended period.
Source: Nhịp sống Việt