Spice Profile: Ginger Zingiber officinale

What is Ginger?

Ginger is an aromatic root used for culinary and medicinal purposes.

How Can I Use Ginger?

Ginger is most commonly available in powdered or fresh forms. The powdered form is used to give a warm and spicy flavor to baked goods. The fresh form is grated or minced and added to many types of Asian dishes. In addition, ginger can be pickled and used as a condiment or candied for a sweet and spicy treat. Also, ginger is used in beverages such as ginger ale, ginger beer and ginger tea.

What is the History of Ginger?

Ginger is a native to the tropical forest in Southern Asia. It has been used medicinally in China and India for over 5000 years. It is believed to have traveled to Rome around the 1st century AD. Ginger remained highly sought after and very expensive throughout the middle ages. 

How to Grow and Plant Ginger

Ginger is a perennial that grows well in subtropical climates. The rhizomes can be harvested at between 5 and 9 months. The later the harvest, the tougher the outer skin and the more intense the flavor. 

Sources

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92775/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginger