Native to the southeast of Asia, ginger has become quite popular in Russia in recent years. It is widely used in cooking, both fresh and pickled or as a condiment. However, the store should be careful and know which ginger to choose.
Instructions
Step 1
Ginger is a genus of perennial herbaceous plants that includes one hundred and forty species. In appearance, the plant resembles a reed with long stems and thin lanceolate leaves. Ginger flowers are large, orange or orange-purple, similar to irises.
Step 2
In the supermarket, you can buy the rhizome of light ginger, which is most often eaten in Russia. Try to choose a fresh root. It should be a pleasant creamy golden or greyish beige shade. The surface of fresh ginger root is smooth to the touch, without dark spots and hard growths. A characteristic pleasant aroma should emanate from ginger, because the fresh root contains a large amount of essential oils. Ginger does not last long, so be careful. The pulp of old ginger becomes tough and fibrous, and such ginger is extremely difficult to clean. If the root smells musty, has dark spots, or molds, it should be thrown away.
Step 3
Occasionally, you can find black ginger in the store. This is the same usual rhizome, but passed through a different treatment - it was only washed and scalded with boiling water. The taste and aroma of black ginger is sharper and more intense. The fresh root has a grayish tint, it is heavy and smooth, without spots, cracks and knots.
Step 4
Ginger is also sold in crushed form. When purchasing such a seasoning, you should pay attention to the date of manufacture and shelf life, which should be indicated on the package. Ground ginger is a grayish-yellow powder with a pleasant aroma. Typically, dried ginger is good for three to four months. If the seasoning has changed color or smell, it is not recommended to use it.
Step 5
Pickled ginger is also a popular treat, especially with Japanese aficionados. Fresh slices should be pink in color. If the brine in the jar has become cloudy, and the treat itself has changed color, it is better to discard the spoiled product.
