Ginger

Also Known As : Gingembre, Adrak, Black Ginger, Cochin Ginger, Ardraka
Technical Name : Zingiber officinale

Vegetarian

Taste Profile

It is aromatic, pungent and spicy.

Usage Tips

  1. Ginger is used as condiment in dishes.
  2. Ginger root can be eaten raw, cooked, candied or dried.
  3. It is used in curries,stir-fries, dressings, marinades, stocks, purees and confections as well as in drinks such as Ginger beer and tea, smoothies and juices.
  4. To store ginger root, refrigerate in a paper bag in the crisper drawer.

Common names and forms

  1. Adrak
  2. Chopped Ginger
  3. Crushed ginger
  4. Diced Ginger
  5. Dried Ginger
  6. Fresh Ginger
  7. Gingembre
  8. Ginger (Root)
  9. Ginger chopped
  10. Ginger Pieces
  11. Ginger Slice
  12. Ginger stick
  13. Ginger Whole
  14. Grated Ginger
  15. Grated Ginger or Ginger Paste
  16. Green ginger
  17. Natural Ginger
  18. Organic Ginger
  19. Organic Ginger (Root)
  20. Real Ginger
  21. Stem Ginger
  22. Zingiber Officinale

Description

Ginger is a knobby, multiple “fingered” rhizome with light to dark tan colored skin with occasional rings. The thickness of the skin depends on whether the rhizome was picked early or when more grown. Its flesh is firm yet fibrous. Gingerol is the primary compound that gives fresh Ginger its spicy pungency, when it is dried its flavor increases (gingerol converts to shogaol) and when cooked, it is less pungent (gingerol converts to zingerone). Gingerol is basically related to capsasin, the component that gives chilies their spiciness. Ginger root is made into a herbal tea in the Philippines called 'salabat', which is used to relieve nausea and to ward off flu and cold. It is available throughout the year. It is native to southeastern Asia. Today it is found in India, China, and Indonesia.

Health benefits

  • Ginger helps in digestion and reduces nausea.(1)
  • It lowers blood sugar level in the body.(1)
  • It has anti-inflammatory effects.(1)
  • It is beneficial in treating menstrual pain.(1)
  • It helps  lower the cholesterol levels and blood triglycerides.(1)

Selection Guide

Select mature ginger root with a smooth skin. Avoid the ones that have wrinkled skin as it may sometimes indicate the root is dry and somewhat older. It should have a spicy and fresh fragrance.

Note

Ginger may cause heartburn, diarrhea and stomach problem if not consumed in moderation.(2)

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