The versatility of ginger is impressive. This ancient spice, so popular today, adapts to all tastes and preferences. From infusions, beverages and recipes, to extracts, oils and supplements, there are numerous ways to include ginger in your daily routine, whether fresh or dried.
Join us in this article and know everything that interests you on the subject : basic recipes, new ways of consumption, recommended doses, tips and frequently asked questions.
Index
1. Ginger tea
A great success if you are a lover of infusions
Undoubtedly this is one of the most common preparations to take ginger. It is rich, it is prepared in a few minutes and it gives us that pleasant feeling of warmth inside.
Drinking ginger tea has many benefits for our health , mainly due to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects derived from its high concentration of gingerols and shogaols. Perhaps its most popular use is for the relief of digestive problems, but it can also be taken to relieve menstrual discomfort, fight cold and flu symptoms, improve hair health, and to lose weight faster .
How to prepare ginger tea or infusion? 4 steps
- Place a piece of fresh ginger root, thinly sliced, diced, or ground into a cup. If you use ginger powder, just add a teaspoon.
- Next, pour hot water over the ginger to fill the cup.
- Let stand for 5-6 minutes to release the natural compounds from the tuber.
- Drink while it’s still warm. You can always add a few drops of honey / stevia to sweeten, as well as other ingredients of your choice, for example lemon or cinnamon.
Many people tend to include ginger in other hot teas and drinks , which is great if you prefer to hide the intensity of its spicy flavor. Some common options are:
- Ginger tea with milk
- Chamomile tea with ginger
- Green tea with ginger and lemon
- Turmeric and ginger tea
Note : pregnant women should not drink ginger tea without first consulting their doctor.
To know all the benefits of ginger tea and its correct way of using it, visit:
- Ginger Tea – Properties, Popular Combinations (Lemon, Cinnamon, Honey) and More
- Is It Good To Drink Ginger Tea Before Sleep? Benefits and Risks
2. Ginger in the kitchen
To make your meals more fun
Both raw ginger and powdered ginger can be added during the preparation of different dishes, especially in Asian cuisine. Its sweet-spicy flavor adds a special touch to soups, meats, salads, pickles and even desserts.
Due to the intensity of its flavor, it is important to control the amount of ginger that we add to meals; otherwise the spice could stand out too much.
If you are thinking of preparing ginger foods , here are some recommended culinary uses:
- Soups . When it comes to flavoring soups, grated or ground fresh ginger is an excellent choice. It adds great flavor to chicken, fish, vegetable, miso and creamy winter soups.
- Fish . For many people, ginger is a staple for seasoning fish and seafood. Its spicy flavor goes very well for white meat fish (tilapia, hake, sole), especially when preparing a grated ginger with lemon and fresh coriander.
- Salads . Adding some fresh grated ginger or dried ginger powder to a mixed vegetable salad will add more flavor and heat to your food. It is best to add the ginger in a previously prepared dressing, not directly on the salad; its flavor can be very strong and alter the palate of some people. A good example can be the mixture of ground ginger with olive oil, honey, lemon and mustard.
- Brining . Pickled or pickled ginger has other uses besides serving as an accompaniment to sushi. You can add it in stir-fries, whisk it into salad dressings, mix it with lemonades or cocktails, add it to stewed meat dishes, and you can even pour its brine into cold sauces. It’s really easy to prepare; You just have to peel the desired amount of fresh ginger, cut it into very thin slices, take it to a container that closes hermetically and put it to marinate for several days in a mixture of water, vinegar, sugar and a pinch of salt in the refrigerator.
- Sauteed vegetables . Any vegetable stir fry can be tastier if we add ginger to it and it acquires that exotic flavor of oriental food. A great combination for stir fry can include broccoli, mushrooms, carrots , onion, and finely grated fresh ginger root .
- Sweet . Dried, candied, glazed ginger, and powdered ginger work wonders for baked desserts such as cakes, biscuits, breads, cookies, and gingerbread houses . But we can also include it in candies , ice cream and creams. Without a doubt, one of the most popular and easy-to-make gingerbread desserts is cookies, especially the typical Christmas cookies.
How to make gingerbread cookies at home? Basic recipe
Ingredients
- 225 grams of flour
- 100 grams of lard or butter
- 100 grams of sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- a pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180ºC and meanwhile mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, a pinch of salt, cinnamon and ginger in a bowl.
- Add the cold diced butter or butter to the dough, distributing and mixing well with your fingers. Then add the honey and keep mixing until the dough is well integrated.
- Begin to make small balls, flatten them with your palms to create the cookie shape and place them on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 7-10 min, or until they are golden brown and the desired texture. Like all cookies, these gingerbread cookies harden as they cool.
- Once out of the oven, it is important to transfer them to a rack so that they finish cooling before eating.
Even if you’re not a big fan of spice, you can still include it in your favorite cookie recipe. Making some chocolate gingerbread cookies would not be a bad idea.
3. Ginger water
Keep it in mind if you prefer cold drinks
Drinking ginger water like plain water is said to help treat many health conditions, including headaches, migraines, nausea, high cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure levels. It also serves as a refreshing drink during hot summer days, supports the body’s natural detoxification, and promotes fat burning during any diet plan.
How to make ginger water?
Like tea, ginger water is extremely easy to prepare.
Method 1 . With the help of a spoon, remove the skin from two slices of fresh ginger (3 inches each); then place them in a container with 1 liter of purified water and let it sit overnight, or at least 4 hours, in the refrigerator to drink the next day.
Method 2 . This variant consists of preparing a ginger infused water. After removing the skin from the fresh ginger root, it should be grated or finely chopped to 3 teaspoons. Bring 1 liter of purified water to a boil, turn off the heat, and add the ginger, covering the container to allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes. After that time, strain the mixture and reserve the ginger water to drink in the form of tea or as common water.
Some people prefer to add herbs and fruits to ginger water to create more flavorful combinations. Do not forget that ginger has a spicy flavor, which can be masked if we add pieces of pineapple, strawberries, apple, lemon, mint leaves, cucumber slices, among others.
How to drink ginger water?
Although it is common to drink ginger water to alleviate common ailments, such as cold symptoms or different digestive problems, it is important to remember that it should not be taken in excess . It is recommended that adults consume no more than 4 grams of ginger per day (in any form), and that pregnant women do not exceed the daily dose of 1 gram.
4. Ginger juices
A drink of health, wellness and pure energy
Ginger root juice is easy to mix with other fruits and vegetables to make powerful natural juices, which is a more fun way to take advantage of the health benefits of this special tuber. Juicing ginger regularly is said to help reduce inflammation in the body, relieve pain from osteoarthritis and migraines, help lose weight, and protect us with its antibacterial, antiparasitic, and antifungal effect.
Simple recipe to make ginger juice in 3 steps
- Clean and dice 2 pieces of fresh ginger root.
- Put them in the blender, add (600 ml) of water and blend until you get a pulpy mixture.
- Strain this mixture, pressing it through a fine sieve or strainer to obtain the pure ginger juice.
Since its flavor will be spicy and strong, you can add a little honey, stevia or blend it together with other ingredients , for example lemon, pear, celery, carrot or apple. Another good recommendation is to mix ginger juice with orange or pineapple.
5. Ginger extract
High concentration, maximum benefits
The extract or tincture of ginger is another very useful form of consumption, with great antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory power. Some of its main uses are the treatment of arthritis and migraines, as well as the relief of nausea, vomiting and other digestive problems. Although this extract offers many health benefits, it should always be used with caution .
How to make ginger extract or tincture
The following is an easy way to obtain ginger extract. The necessary elements are:
- Fresh ginger (40-50 grams)
- Vodka (it has no smell, color and has almost no taste). Note: extracts can be obtained using alcohol or glycerin as carrier substances. People who cannot consume alcohol can make the recipe with vegetable glycerin.
- A glass jar with a tight lid
- A cotton gauze
- Dark Glass Flask
Steps
- After the ginger is peeled, diced or grated, it should be placed in the glass container, filling it halfway. The other half will be filled with vodka.
- Then it must be closed hermetically, shake the bottle very well and store in a dark and warm place, always away from sources of heat.
- Let it marinate for a minimum of 3 weeks, shaking once a week. When this time has passed, the ginger extract is filtered with the help of a sterilized cotton gauze.
- It is important that the container where we are going to filter is not made of plastic. The most advisable thing is to pass the extract into an amber glass bottle with a dropper to achieve a better dosage.
- Under the right conditions, this tincture can have a shelf life of several months. It is recommended to store in the refrigerator to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.
Another way to get ginger extract is to cover the fresh chopped root with a mixture of water and at least 55% glycerin. The ingredients are combined very well, covered hermetically and left to marinate in a dark and cool place for a period of 4 to 6 weeks. After that time, it should be strained and stored in the same way as described above.
6. Homemade ginger oil
Safe for drinks, safe for food
Like other ginger formulations, the oil obtained from this root is usually taken orally to treat gastrointestinal problems, headaches, migraines, and nausea. It is not usually used topically, as it can cause skin irritation; however it can be better tolerated if diluted before application. Note: For topical use only therapeutic ginger oil is recommended.
Several scientific investigations have corroborated some of its properties and suggest that regular consumption of ginger oil can help reduce oxidative stress, gastric ulcers and inflammatory processes in the body.
If you wish, you can get your own natural oil at home; You just need a little time and patience.
How to make ginger oil?
The most popular methods of making ginger oil are mashing and heating . Some people use a combination of both methods.
Maceration or soaking method to obtain ginger oil
This method takes time and patience, but it can be very rewarding. To soak or marinate the ginger, the following ingredients and utensils are needed:
- Fresh or dehydrated ginger (desired amount)
- A carrier oil , such as olive or avocado oil
- A blender or food processor
- A clean and dry glass container with a lid to pour the infused oil
Add the ginger to a blender or food processor and coat completely with the carrier oil of your choice. Mix very well until you get a substance with a grainy texture, similar to pesto; This favors the absorption of the active ginger compounds in the carrier oil . Transfer the mixture to a clean, dry glass jar.
This mixture should be covered by 1-2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of oil, so add more oil if necessary.
Cover the opening of the container well and place it in a cool, dry, dark cabinet. After a minimum of four weeks, take it out and strain the resulting oil through a muslin cloth or a very tight weave of gauze. With clean, dry hands, be sure to wring the cloth well to get every drop of the ginger oil. Finally store it in a clean and dry container.
Heat method to obtain ginger oil
After blending the ginger with the carrier oil as described above, place the mixture in a bowl. Then place it on a saucepan half full of hot water. The container should fit snugly in the saucepan, but should not touch the water; This method is known as a double boiler.
Let the mixture simmer over low heat for 4-8 hours. Use a kitchen thermometer to make sure the oil is always at 110 ° F (43 ° C). Also make sure the water doesn’t evaporate completely.
After several hours of slow cooking, remove the infused ginger oil from the heat and let it cool. While it is still hot, proceed to strain the mixture as described in the previous method, and store the oil in a clean, dry container.
Homemade ginger oil can last 2-3 years if kept refrigerated.
7. Ginger capsules
More effective in controlling the dose you eat
Ginger root capsules are an ideal dosage form to take ginger and take advantage of its benefits. Many people have found relief from their gastrointestinal problems, headaches, migraines, or arthritis after taking ginger supplements.
These capsules are available in pharmacies and health food stores, but some prefer to make their own capsules to ensure the desired quality and dosage.
How to Make Ginger Root Capsules
Ingredients:
- Empty capsules of size 0 (easier to swallow) or 00 (contain more product); It is recommended to always use 100% plant derived capsules.
- Ginger powder (preferably very fine)
- A large bowl
- Wax paper
- Small spatula to transfer the ginger powder
Instructions:
- Place the bowl on the wax paper and begin filling the capsules, holding them over the container to catch any spills. Hold the larger part of the capsule in one hand and transfer the ginger powder into it with the small spatula.
- Lightly touch the capsule to help the powder settle; then close by firmly pressing the smallest part of the capsule onto the largest part. Repeat the process until all the capsules are filled.
- Store them in a cool place, preferably in a dark glass container with a tight seal. They can have a shelf life of approximately 3-4 months.
These ginger capsules can be taken up to 3 times a day, after each meal, but it is always better to consult your doctor beforehand .
8. Ginger lozenges and tablets
Ideal if ginger tends to upset your stomach
Ginger pills and tablets are highly recommended to reduce any inflammation, pain, as well as the feeling of nausea and vomiting. Many people take these supplements to relieve pregnancy-related headaches, migraines, arthritis pain, dizziness, and nausea, among other conditions.
Some studies suggest that taking ginger pills can serve as a preventive treatment against heart attacks and strokes, as well as regulating blood sugar levels in diabetic patients.
One of their main advantages is that, depending on the manufacture, they can break down gradually, which reduces the possibility of causing an upset stomach in some people. In addition, they are very durable, their useful life can be extended from 2 to 3 years.
Differences between ginger pills and tablets
These days most people use the term “pill” as a generic name to refer to any drug or supplement in hard form. However, there are some differences between the available options.
The pills ginger are a solid dosage form generally round with a precise dose of the drug or active ingredient, in this case of ginger. They can be swallowed whole and are distinguished by a manufacturing process that requires wet molding techniques and the addition of substances to keep their shape and characteristics unaltered over time.
For its part, ginger tablets contain a mixture of active ingredients and excipients (bulking agents, disintegrants, lubricants, glidants), compressed in a solid form and generally coated to allow smooth ingestion and adequate absorption. These tablets are compacted using high pressure mechanisms, and are produced in a wide range of sizes, colors and shapes.
Due to the excipients that are included in the manufacturing process, ginger tablets are not the purest form to use as a supplement, however their properties allow the gradual release and better absorption of the ginger components in the body.
As in other forms of consumption, the daily dose of ginger for adults should not exceed 4 grams, while pregnant women should not take more than 1 gram daily. Either way, be sure to always consult your doctor before you start taking them. More details on the recommended dose in Ginger Contraindications – Side Effects and Correct Dose .
It may interest you:
Quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions
What is the use of taking ginger with lemon on an empty stomach?
Drinking water or ginger tea with lemon juice on an empty stomach can help you in different ways. People often take it to:
- Accelerate metabolism, increase fat burning and lose weight faster.
- Raise energy levels before starting the daily routine.
- Strengthen the immune system.
- Check blood glucose levels before breakfast.
- Promote good digestion of food.
- Alkalize the body and reduce inflammation of the abdomen.
- Detoxify the body.
- Boost bowel movement.
All the details in:
- Ginger with Lemon – Benefits, Preparation, Combinations, Contraindications and More
- What is the Ginger used for on an empty stomach (Tea, Water, Shots)? [Resolved]
Does ginger with cinnamon help you lose weight?
There is some scientific evidence that the combination of ginger and cinnamon promotes the burning of fat at rest and helps to lose weight naturally, especially the abdomen area. Learn all about this and other benefits in Ginger and Cinnamon: Properties, Benefits, Contraindications, Consumption, Combinations .
Is it good to have green tea with ginger?
The union of green tea with ginger creates a powerful and healthy combination . It can be an excellent option for increasing energy levels, strengthening the body’s immunity, fighting oxidative damage caused by free radicals, and preventing premature aging, as well as the development of various chronic conditions.
How do you prepare ginger with lemon and honey for cough?
Although these three ingredients can be used in different ways, the two most common preparations for relieving coughs are tea and ginger syrup with honey and lemon. To take a look at both recipes, visit Ginger for Cough: How to Use (Tea, Syrup), Contraindications and Dosage .
What are the benefits of taking ginger, lemon and cinnamon?
The combination of fresh ginger, lemon, and cinnamon is commonly used to accelerate weight loss, reduce inflammation, boost blood circulation, and regulate glucose levels if you are diabetic.
What is the use of taking turmeric and ginger?
The slimming, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of both tubers can be beneficial for losing weight, alleviating the symptoms of different inflammatory conditions, preventing oxidative damage to cells, fighting common infections and improving the health of skin and hair, among others. applications. The turmeric and ginger can be taken together as a tea, in capsules or as a condiment with food.
Related topics:
What are the benefits of taking garlic and ginger?
These two super stars of the kitchen make a great duo, not only for the home treatment of common problems, but also for the prevention of serious diseases. When done the right way, combining garlic with ginger can help:
- Improve blood circulation and prevent clots.
- Accelerate cold or flu recovery.
- Fight all types of infections (bacterial, viral and fungal).
- Regulate glucose and cholesterol levels in the blood.
- Regulate blood pressure levels.
- Prevent the development of heart disease and cancer.
- Promote the proper functioning of the gastrointestinal system.
- Fight inflammatory processes in the body.
How do you take ginger to lose weight?
All the forms of consumption mentioned in this article can serve as a supplement when you are trying to lose weight. One of the most popular options is tea, water, and fasting ginger shots, but the other variants are also effective.
Note: keep in mind that taking ginger is not enough to reduce; you should always use it in combination with a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
If you want to see more details on how to take ginger to lose weight, visit How to Use Ginger to Lose Weight ? (The Scientific Findings) .
What is the ginger diet?
The ” ginger diet ” refers to the inclusion of ginger, either fresh or ground, in various of your foods and drinks throughout the day. For this, you can rely on the preparations suggested in this article, but you can also take note of the following tips:
- Add 1 teaspoon of ginger juice to the first glass of water you drink in the morning.
- Grate 1 inch of ginger root and add it to a smoothie or cereal.
- Add ground ginger to green tea or black tea.
- Add 1 teaspoon of grated ginger or ½ teaspoon of ginger paste to seasoning for meats (chicken, fish, seafood).
- Add ginger to your salads, soups, creams, desserts, and sauces.
The recommended daily dose should never be exceeded. Always consult your doctor if you have any illness or are under treatment.
See details in Ginger Contraindications – Side Effects and Correct Dosage
Is it good to use ginger during pregnancy?
Although ginger is a widely known remedy for alleviating morning sickness in pregnant women (nausea, dizziness, vomiting), its use should be done responsibly. Its use in small doses is considered beneficial and safe during pregnancy, but it should be noted that there is still some scientific debate about it. Check everything you need to know about Ginger in Pregnancy – Benefits, Contraindications and Dosage .
Can ginger give diarrhea?
Yes. When consumed in excess, ginger can cause a number of side effects , including diarrhea and other digestive complaints. Some people may be more sensitive to this if they have a gastrointestinal disorder.
Is it true that taking ginger and apple cider vinegar works for varicose veins?
There are testimonials from people who have used this combination to improve the appearance of their varicose veins. Considering that ginger and apple cider vinegar have properties that reduce swelling and promote blood circulation, their use together can be of great help.
My name is Louise Hammond, and I am the creator of this website, a place to find information about tubers, bulbs and medicinal roots. In Dreamsship.com I show the properties, benefits, characteristics, photos and images, ways of growing and how to make delicious meals from starchy vegetables.