How to Use Crystallized Ginger

Crystallized ginger, or candied ginger, is sliced or chopped ginger root boiled in a sweet syrup and then rolled in sugar crystals. Properly stored in an airtight container, crystallized ginger can last for years on your pantry shelf. Because of the sweetness of crystallized ginger, it is most often used in making gingerbread, but it can be used in a variety of other ways also.

Instructions

1. Eat it straight from the container. Because of the sweet/tart properties, it makes an excellent candy.

2. Substitute crystallized ginger in any cookie recipe that calls for raisins. Swap in equal amounts. It is especially good in oatmeal cookies. Use either sliced or chopped ginger, depending on your preference.

3. Add a tablespoon or two of chopped, crystallized ginger to muffin recipes. Because of the sweetness of the ginger, reduce any sugar called for in the recipe by equal amounts.

4. Add a tablespoon of chopped, crystallized ginger to your favorite sweet-and-sour sauce recipe. The ginger will add additional sweet and tangy taste to the sauce.

5. Chew slices of crystallized ginger for upset stomachs or before a road trip to prevent motion sickness. Ginger is calming to the stomach.

Tips & Warnings

• If you cannot find crystallized ginger at the supermarket, it is simple to make at home. Peel and slice fresh ginger root. Place it into a saucepan, cover the slices with water, and simmer until the slices are tender. Remove and drain the ginger. Measure the cooked ginger, and place it back into the pan. Add an equal measurement of sugar and a few tablespoons of water. Cook until the water has evaporated, cover the slices with additional sugar, and store them in an airtight container.

References

• Ginger
• Ginger