Tips

The Ultimate Guide to Identifying Chinese Onions, Garlic, and Ginger

"Distinguishing between onions, garlic, and ginger can be a challenge, especially when it comes to identifying their country of origin. However, with our helpful tips and tricks, you'll be a pro at selecting the freshest and safest produce for your family's meals. Let's get started on this effective and efficient learning journey together."

Administrator

6 August, 2024

1Identifying Dried Onions

Distinguishing Vietnamese and Chinese Dried Onions

Chinese dried onions typically have large, round bulbs, with only one clove per onion, and a very thin, pale red outer skin. This type of onion lacks a distinctive aroma when consumed.

On the other hand, Vietnamese dried onions usually have smaller bulbs, with multiple cloves per bulb, a thicker skin, and a distinctive aroma when used.

2Identifying Chinese Garlic

How to Identify Chinese Garlic

Vietnamese garlic, renowned for its brands such as Ly Son garlic, Da Lat garlic, and Bac garlic, often has a strong aroma and a difficult-to-peel skin. In contrast, Chinese garlic is easy to peel but lacks a pleasant aroma, instead emitting a sharp, pungent smell.

Vietnamese garlic is characterized by smaller bulbs, multiple small cloves per bulb, an outer skin that is usually white or brownish-purple, and a tapered end where the cloves converge. Chinese garlic, on the other hand, has large bulbs, fewer cloves per bulb, a whitish-yellow outer skin, and a splayed end.

2Differentiating Vietnamese and Chinese Ginger

Differentiating Vietnamese and Chinese Ginger

Chinese ginger tends to have large, evenly sized bulbs, with fewer branches and a clean, shiny outer layer that is easy to peel. When cut open, Chinese ginger reveals a pale yellow interior, less fibrous core, and lacks a distinctive aroma, offering only a mild spiciness and slight pungency.

In contrast, Vietnamese ginger has smaller bulbs and more branches per bulb. The outer layer is usually darker, rougher, and more challenging to peel. When sliced, Vietnamese ginger exhibits a bright yellow interior, a fibrous core, a strong aroma, and a distinctively spicy and flavorful taste.

In terms of pricing, Vietnamese fresh ginger is slightly more affordable than its Chinese counterpart. Specifically, Vietnamese ginger costs around 8,000 – 13,000 VND/kg, while Chinese ginger is priced at 10,000 – 15,000 VND/kg.

3Tips for Buying Onions, Garlic, and Ginger

Tips for Buying Onions, Garlic, and Ginger

To ensure you are purchasing domestic, chemical-free onions, garlic, and ginger that are safe for consumption, it is advisable to shop at reputable stores, supermarkets, or quality vendors.

We hope that with these tips, you will become a savvy consumer, able to discern and select the best onions, garlic, and ginger for your needs.

Frequently asked questions

Chinese onions have a strong flavor and are usually sold in bundles of thin, green stalks with white bulbs at the base. Look for firm bulbs with bright green stalks, avoiding any signs of wilting or yellowing. Chinese garlic is typically smaller than regular garlic and has a pinkish hue to its cloves. Choose firm heads with tight, unbroken skin. For ginger, select roots that are heavy for their size, with smooth, taut skin. Avoid those with wrinkled skin or soft spots.

Chinese onions are typically milder and sweeter than their Western counterparts, with a less pungent aroma. Chinese garlic has a stronger, more intense flavor and is often preferred in Asian cuisine. Chinese ginger is usually younger and has a milder, less fibrous texture compared to Western ginger.

Store Chinese onions in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. They can also be refrigerated, preferably in a paper bag, to extend their shelf life. For garlic, store in a cool, dark place with low humidity. A breathable container, such as a paper or mesh bag, is ideal. Do not store garlic in the refrigerator. Ginger can be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in an airtight container, where it can last for several weeks. Alternatively, store it at room temperature if you plan to use it within a week or two.

Yes, all three can be frozen to extend their shelf life. Chop or mince the onions, garlic, or ginger, and place them in ice cube trays filled with water. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. Alternatively, pureed ginger can be frozen in ice cube trays for later use in recipes.

Chinese onions are commonly used in stir-fries, soups, and as a garnish for various dishes. They add a mild onion flavor without being overpowering. Garlic is a staple in many Asian dishes, adding a strong, pungent flavor to stir-fries, sauces, and marinades. Ginger is often used in stir-fries, soups, and teas, providing a warm, spicy flavor and numerous health benefits.