Easy and Domestic Methods to Store Ginger:

I will be sharing different methods you can choose to store ginger. I know it is so much work to peel it off and cut or grind at the time when you need it….. This is why I came up with these tips which are shared by my grandmother to my mother and me as well. Let’s see…what benefits does ginger to our body.

What are the health benefits of Ginger?

1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols and shogaols. These helps to reduce inflammation in the body, which may be beneficial for conditions like diseases like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
2. Digestive Aid: Ginger has been used to overcome digestive issues. It can help stimulate digestion, relieve nausea and vomiting, and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. Ginger also promotes the production of digestive enzymes, which helps in the process of breaking down and absorbing nutrients.
3. Anti-Nausea Effects: Ginger is well-known for its ability to ease nausea and vomiting, particularly related to pregnancy, motion sickness, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. It is believed to work by affecting the digestive and nervous systems, calming the stomach and reducing feelings of nausea.
4. Boosts Immune System: Ginger contains antioxidants that help support the immune system and protects from oxidative stress. It may help prevent and fight off infections, improve respiratory health, and reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms.
5. Blood Sugar Regulation: Research shows that ginger may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin resistance. This can be beneficial for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
6. Cardiovascular Health: Ginger may have positive effects on health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It may also help reduce the risk of blood clots and improve blood circulation.
7. Pain Relief: Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger may help to get relieve from various types of pain, including muscle soreness, menstrual cramps, and migraines. It may work by producing inflammatory compounds that contribute to pain.
8. Antioxidant and Anti-Cancer Effects: Ginger contains potent antioxidants that can help protect the body against damage caused by free radicals. Some studies have also suggested that ginger may have anti-cancer properties, potentially inhibiting the growth and spread of certain types of cancer cells.

Although it’s important to note that while ginger offers potential health benefits, it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have any specific health concerns, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional. Please….

Great!!! So..it is obvious that ginger is very beneficial for our health. Now….let’s see how to store it so you won’t have to hassle at the time when you cook and you have pan over the stove already…about to burn. Here are the methods to store, whether whole or sliced.

Whole Ginger Storage Method:

1. Selecting Fresh Ginger: Choose ginger roots that are firm, plump, and smooth. Avoid ginger that feels soft or has moldy or wrinkled spots or feels ewwwish. Put it separately if you are going to use it right away, else it would spoil the rest.
2. Keeping it Dry: Moisture is the enemy when it comes to storing ginger. Excess moisture can cause ginger to spoil or develop mold. Before storing, gently pat dry the ginger using a paper towel to remove any moisture on the surface. Cooool… Grandma knows science.
3. Wrapping in Paper Towel: Wrap the whole ginger root in a clean, dry paper towel. This helps absorb any remaining moisture and keeps the ginger dry. The paper towel also provides a protective layer, preventing the ginger from directly touching other items in the storage area. A clean cotton cloth can also be used instead of paper towel.
4. Storing in the Refrigerator: Place the wrapped ginger in a perforated or loosely sealed plastic bag or in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator. The cool temperature and controlled humidity of the refrigerator help maintain the freshness and flavor of the ginger. Avoid storing it in airtight containers or non-porous plastic bags, as these can trap moisture and lead to spoilage very soon.
5. Avoiding Exposure to Light: Ginger should be stored away from direct light. Consider using an opaque or dark-colored bag to shield it from any light exposure, as light can degrade the quality and flavor of the ginger.
6. Duration of Storage: Whole ginger can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. This depends on its freshness at the time of purchase. However, it’s best to use it as soon as possible for flavor and quality.
7. Spoilage Check: Before using the stored ginger, inspect it for any signs of mold, soft spots, or unpleasant odors. If you notice any of these signs, throw the ginger to prevent any potential health risks.

Storing ginger as a whole root helps preserve its freshness and flavor for a longer period. By following these simple steps, you can keep ginger for a long period of time and have it readily available whenever you need it for cooking or other purposes.

Peeled and Sliced Ginger Storage Method:

1. Peeling and Slicing Ginger: Start by peeling the skin off the ginger using a vegetable peeler or the edge of a spoon. Once peeled, cut the ginger into smaller slices or julienne strips, depending on your preference or recipe requirements.
2. Drying the Ginger: After peeling and slicing, it’s essential to dry the ginger thoroughly to remove any excess moisture. You can gently pat the ginger slices with a paper towel or allow them to air dry for a short time.
3. Store in an Airtight Container: Transfer the dried ginger slices into an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Ensure that the container or bag is completely airtight to prevent moisture from entering and spoiling the ginger.
4. Refrigerator Storage: Place the sealed container or bag in the refrigerator. The cool temperature of the refrigerator helps maintain the freshness and quality of the ginger slices. Refrigeration also slows down the growth of microorganisms, extending the shelf life of the ginger.
5. Freezing Ginger Slices (Optional): If you have a large amount of ginger or want to store it for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option. Arrange the ginger slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching each other. Place the baking sheet in the freezer until the ginger slices are frozen solid. Then, transfer the frozen slices into a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen ginger slices can be stored for several months. So, you will have enough of ginger…good for months.
6. Labeling and Dating: To keep track of the storage time, consider labeling the container or bag with the date of storage. This will help you use the oldest ginger first to ensure freshness.
7. Thawing and Using: When you need ginger for your recipe, you can either thaw the frozen ginger slices in the refrigerator overnight or use them directly in cooking without thawing. Thawed ginger slices should be used within a few days and not refrozen.

By following these steps, you can store peeled and sliced ginger for future use, allowing you to conveniently add ginger to your recipes while maintaining its flavor and quality.