Candied Ginger: Spice up your sweet or savory dishes and add all the health benefits ginger has to offer. An easy DIY!
Candied Ginger
If your prior experience with ginger goes no further than a gingersnap or gingerbread, take note: Ginger is spicy! It can really bring some kick to your dish. But it brings more than heat . . .
Ginger or ginger root comes from the rhizome (or underground rooty stem) of a flowering ginger plant. It has been used for centuries by other cultures for its medicinal value. Chew on a small amount to relieve nausea. Make a tea to relieve digestive issues. Are you a singer? Suck on a piece before a performance to loosen your vocal chords! Many studies suggest that the medicinal properties of ginger do not end there.
Candied Ginger – Raw Ginger
Benefits of Ginger
Research over the years has yielded results that suggest ginger has antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also exhibits characteristics similar to cinnamon in the effect it has on insulin action and resulting blood sugar levels. Ginger has thermogenic properties, as well. This means that it is believed to increase the metabolism in the body when consumed and helps metabolize carbohydrates and lipids more efficiently. (Note: this information is provided as a courtesy and should not be used as professional medical advice. Please consult your physician or health care provider before making any changes to your diet or health plan.)
Candied Ginger – Sliced Ginger
A Chopping Hack
I recently discovered that my apple slicer was good for more than just slicing apples! I never stopped to think about the fact that this awesome device was really just eight sharp blades. Why should it be relegated to only cutting apples? It was a great time saver when dicing my ginger slices into tiny little pieces. Give it a try!
Candied Ginger – Chopping Ginger
Forever Ginger
Me, yes. HA! But that’s not what I’m talking about. Ginger will store for a very long time. Purchase it fresh and firm. Store it unpeeled in an airtight container in your refrigerator for months. It’s always there when you need it or want to kick up the flavor and spice in your culinary creation. Once candied, the ginger will keep for several weeks in an airtight container.
Candied Ginger – Ginger Added to Coconut Palm Sugar and Water
Candied Ginger DIY
Candying ginger yourself is as easy as 1-2-3 ingredients and just a few steps. Boil your water and coconut palm sugar, add the ginger and simmer, dry ginger and coat with more coconut palm sugar. Store. There is so much yumminess to be had with these little darlings. Spin it savory and add to a stir-fry or pasta dish. Go sweet and sprinkle some on top of vegan ice cream or your favorite cereal, or add it to baked goods or . . . my next recipe, so that’s a surprise! Oh and don’t forget to save the remaining syrup. Ginger Syrup will totally kick up your pancake game!
Candied Ginger Drying
Candied Ginger – Remaining Syrup
Candied Ginger
Candied Ginger: Spice up your sweet or savory dishes and add all the health benefits ginger has to offer. An easy DIY and refined sugar-free!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup filtered water
- 3/4 cup coconut palm sugar plus some to coat candied ginger after drying (about 2 or 3 tablespoons).
- 1/2 cup fresh ginger diced
Instructions
- 1) Wash ginger and scrape off some of the skin with a sharp knife. I like to leave some on as it is believed the skin provides additional health benefits. In a small saucepan bring water and coconut palm sugar to a boil. Add ginger and reduce to simmer. Simmer about 20 minutes stirring occasionally.
- 2) Remove ginger with a slotted spoon leaving liquid/syrup behind. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer to dry (see picture in post). Once cooled, syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for future use.
- 3) Once some of the excess syrup has firmed (it will still be somewhat moist) place ginger in a small bowl with enough coconut palm sugar to coat the ginger. Gently stir the ginger into the sugar until it is coated. Remove ginger from excess sugar and store in an airtight container for several weeks.
Leave a Reply