Ginger is an essential ingredient that you can use for cooking and traditional remedies. Ginger root is potent and packed with flavors. A little piece of ginger goes a long way in many dishes.
The problem with storing ginger is that it doesn’t last very long. At the same time, it is usually sold in a huge package that you can’t finish within 2 to 3 weeks.
Perhaps, you are a regular user of this spicy root. Unfortunately, your local supermarket doesn’t always have fresh ginger root in stock. Your best option is to buy at an Asian store, but there is none nearby.
Either way, you’re wondering: can you freeze ginger? Without a doubt, yes, you can freeze ginger. You can freeze ginger as is, minced, sliced, or grated.
If you’re curious about the best way to freeze ginger and related topics, keep reading. You’ll find what you need in this article.
The Best Way To Freeze Ginger Root
Choose the best fresh ginger root that is plump, free from blemishes, and unwrinkled. It’s no use to freeze inferior quality ginger as this one won’t be flavorful to use.
You can freeze ginger in several ways—as a whole, sliced, minced, or grated. Freezing whole ginger is the easiest and takes no time. The other methods require a few more steps, but they are ready to use once taken out from the freezer.
How to Freeze Whole Ginger
1. Pick fresh ginger to freeze.
2. Clean and dry any excess moisture. If the root is too big, consider breaking it into some smaller pieces. Smaller ginger roots are easier to work with, both when freezing and thawing.
3. Wrap ginger root individually in an aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
4. Place wrapped gingers in a freezer bag.
5. Remove as much air as possible.
6. Seal the bag tightly and label it with a freezing date.
7. Transfer the package into the freezer.
How to Freeze Minced and Grated Ginger
1. Pick fresh ginger to freeze.
2. Wash thoroughly and scrape off the skin with a teaspoon.
3. Mince or grate finely using a food processor or a grater.
4. Scoop minced or grated ginger and transfer into ice cube trays. Adjust the amount to your preference.
5. Flash freeze the prepared ginger for a few hours.
6. Remove the frozen cubes and transfer them into a resealable plastic bag.
7. Squeeze as much air as possible.
8. Seal the bag and label it with a freezing date.
9. Transfer the bag into the freezer.
How to Freeze Sliced and Chopped Ginger
1. Prepare the fresh ginger.
2. Wash and peel it.
3. Slice or chop it to your preference.
4. Transfer prepared ginger into a freezer bag.
5. Remove as much air as possible.
6. Seal the bag and label with a freezing date.
7. Place the bag into the freezer.
Check your freezer occasionally. Set the temperature to 0 °F (−18 °C) or lower.
How To Use Frozen Ginger
You can use frozen ginger similarly to how you use a fresh one. Here are some ideas on how to use frozen ginger:
– make refreshing ginger drinks (mix with lemon, honey, or tea)
– use it to spice up your dishes, such as for stir-fry, marinades, curry, soup
– turn it into a ginger paste (this one is better than ginger powder) and chutney
– use for baking (gingerbread, cookies, etc.)
– add to Asian style salad dressing
– mix with alcoholic drinks (think of sangria or ginger-infused whiskey)
Ginger is a versatile spice that goes to both savory and sweet recipes. You will never run out of ideas on how to use ginger.
How To Defrost Frozen Ginger
Depending on how you want to use it, you can also use frozen ginger as is—no need to thaw it. In fact, it is easier to peel and grate frozen ginger.
You can safely thaw ginger in the refrigerator. It won’t take hours since it’s in a small amount. If you’re using it for cooking recipes, you can throw it instantly into the pan. Easy peasy.
How Long Can You Freeze Ginger?
Ginger is one of the food items that freeze pretty well. When properly refrigerated, whole ginger only stays for 2 to 3 weeks, after which it starts to shrivel and lose its flavor.
When continuously frozen at 0ºF, frozen ginger is best to use within six months. After that, it may remain safe to use but may start to lose its potency. The flavor may begin to dissipate after lengthy freezing. (*)
FAQs
Does freezing ginger lose its nutrients?
No, with adequate preparation and freezing, frozen ginger doesn’t lose its healthy nutrients.
Is it okay to eat raw ginger?
Yes, you can use raw ginger for your tea or sprinkle on salad. Make sure to clean and rinse it thoroughly before use.
Do you have to peel ginger before you freeze it?
No, you can freeze whole ginger unpeeled. Just make sure to get rid of the dirt and dry it before freezing.
How do you know if ginger has gone bad?
Some common traits of bad ginger include moldy parts, rotting smell, shriveled, and wrinkled roots. If you’re not sure, try to cut it and give it a whiff. If ginger doesn’t smell pungent like a fresh one, it definitely has gone bad.
Can you freeze ginger syrup?
Yes, you can freeze ginger syrup in ice cube trays. Flash freeze the syrup and transfer the cubes into a freezer bag immediately after frozen solid. Keep the bag in the freezer for later use.
Summary
Ginger is one of the spices that you only need a small amount for a recipe. Unfortunately, it only lasts for 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. Therefore, freezing ginger is an ultimate way to salvage your ginger supply.
You can freeze whole ginger or have it sliced, minced, grated, or chopped to your liking. Frozen ginger maintains its flavor for up to 6 months.
By now, you know the best way to freeze ginger. No need to worry your leftover ginger goes to waste!
Rosa graduated with a master degree in Food Safety from Wageningen University and Research, The Netherlands. Recently, she started a consulting agency to facilitate the improvement of food safety, quality, and sustainability.
