Ginger: A Delightful and Therapeutic Root
Key Takeaways:
- Ginger is not just a flavorful addition to dishes but also has potent health-enhancing compounds, like gingerol, which is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory characteristics.
- Ginger is packed with essential nutrients including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, thereby making a significant contribution to our overall health.
- The best ginger is solid, smooth and has a light brown-colored peel. It can be stored for several weeks in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel.
- Peeling ginger can be done using a spoon or a vegetable peeler, and it can be incorporated into a variety of recipes like salad dressings, marinades, or a refreshing herbal tea.
- An easy and nutritious recipe incorporating ginger is a vegetarian stir fry. It includes sesame oil, mushrooms, carrots, bell pepper, onion, minced ginger, cooked brown rice, and reduced-sodium soy sauce.
There is something uniquely captivating about ginger, this aromatic staple isn’t just about enlivening and uplifting your favourite dishes. Rather, it is primarily celebrated for its potent health-enhancing constituents. One of the standout compounds it holds is gingerol, recognized for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory characteristics.
Moreover, ginger is a powerhouse of essential nutrients including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, all of which contribute majorly to our overall health.
Finding ginger roots is invariably comfortable. They are accessible and budget-friendly, widely available in the vegetable section of most supermarkets. The key to choosing the finest ginger is to look for one that is solid and smooth. It may have numerous protrusions, but they must not be withered. The peel should be of a light brown colour and relatively even. Ginger can be stored for several weeks in the refrigerator’s vegetable compartment, just ensure to wrap it in a paper towel and swap the towel whenever it gets damp.
Peeling ginger can be a breeze with a spoon, just scrape off the skin with the edge. However, a vegetable peeler can also do the job, and sometimes even better. When your recipe requires minced ginger, after peeling, carve horizontal slices, cut each slice into sticks and then mince them into minuscule pieces. For grated ginger, you might want to utilise a small food processor or, even more efficient, a microplane. This method simply involves running one trimmed end of ginger across the metal grid, letting the ginger and its juice fall into a cup.
Ginger finds its use in multiple recipes, like spicing up salad dressings, marinades and brewing a refreshing herbal tea. For an uncomplicated yet hearty main dish, consider incorporating it in this appetizing vegetarian stir fry.
Ginger Stir Fry
* 2 tablespoons sesame oil
* 2 cups sliced mushrooms
* 2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
* 1 green bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
* 1 onion, peeled and thinly sliced
* 2 tablespoons minced ginger
* 2 cups cooked brown rice
* 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
Start by heating a large skillet over a medium flame. Pour in the sesame oil, followed by the vegetables and ginger. Cook for three to four minutes, making sure to stir frequently, until the vegetables soften. Then incorporate the rice and soy sauce, and mix thoroughly. Best when served hot.
Yield: 4 servings
Further information
Interested in more? Visit ‘Fruits and Veggies: More Matters’ which offers a plethora of delicious recipes that involve ginger.
