Understanding Ginger Measurements
When cooking with ginger, it's important to understand how much to use. One common measurement is a 1 inch piece of ginger. But what exactly does that translate to when minced? Let's take a closer look at ginger measurements and conversions.
How Much Does 1 Inch of Ginger Weigh?
When referring to a 1 inch piece of ginger, this generally correlates to a chunk sliced from a ginger root that is 1 inch in length. The thickness can vary depending on the size and shape of the ginger root.
On average, 1 inch of raw ginger weighs:
- About 5 grams
- Just under 0.2 ounces
So if a recipe calls for 1 inch of grated or minced ginger, you'd want a 5 gram piece to start with.
Measuring Mined Ginger
Once ginger is grated or finely minced, the volume changes slightly compared to the solid root. Here is how much minced ginger you get from a 1 inch piece:
- 1 inch ginger minced = about 1 tablespoon
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger = about 5 grams
So when a recipe specifies 1 tablespoon or 5 grams of grated ginger, you'd want to start with a 1 inch section.
1 Teaspoon and 1 Tablespoon Equivalents
While 1 inch corresponds to 1 tablespoon when minced, it can be helpful to also understand teaspoon equivalents:
- 1 inch ginger = 3 teaspoons minced
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger = 3 teaspoons
So you can use teaspoons or tablespoons interchangeably when measuring minced ginger.
Where to Buy Ginger
Fresh ginger can be purchased at most grocery stores in the produce section. Look for ginger roots that have smooth, taut skin and no wrinkles, mold, or soft spots.
Ginger at the Grocery Store
When shopping at local supermarkets, you'll often find ginger sold in a few ways:
- Whole fresh ginger roots: Available individually or bundled in packs of 2-3 roots
- Pre-peeled ginger: Sold refrigerated in vacuum-sealed packaging to preserve freshness
- Jarred, pickled ginger: Shelved alongside condiments and Asian specialty ingredients
Specialty Stores
You can also source fresh and ground ginger products at natural foods stores, Asian markets, spice shops, and gourmet grocers. These retailers tend to have a wider range of options like:
- Organic ginger
- Young ginger
- Ginger juice shots
- Candied ginger
- Ground ginger powder
- Ginger tea bags
Farmer's Markets
Don't forget to check your local farmer's market during ginger's peak harvest seasons. You may discover specialty ginger varietals sold directly from small regional farms.
Storing Fresh Ginger Root
Proper storage is crucial for preserving fresh ginger. Here are some tips:
Whole Ginger Root
Store fresh, unpeeled ginger in a resealable plastic bag in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator. It will keep this way for up to 3 weeks.
Cut Ginger
If you cut into a ginger root, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Use within 1-2 weeks for best quality.
Freezing
Grated ginger freezes especially well for later use. Simply pack grated bits into an airtight freezer bag or container allowing some headspace. Frozen, it will keep for up to 6 months.
Storage Times
As a general rule, store fresh ginger rhizomes for:
- Counter: 3-5 days
- Fridge: 3-4 weeks
- Freezer: 6 months
Pickling
Ginger can also be pickled in vinegar to prolong shelf life. Pickled ginger keeps refrigerated for several months.
Common Forms of Ginger
Ginger can be utilized in various forms when cooking:
Fresh
Fresh ginger root is most commonly used. Choose ginger with smooth skin free from blemishes.
Ground
Dried and ground into a bright yellow powder. Convenient for baking recipes.
Crystallized
Candied ginger has a sweet flavor and chewy texture. Often used in baking or as a garnish.
Pickled
Thinly sliced ginger pickled in a sweet vinegar brine. Served alongside Asian dishes or sushi.
Juice
A concentrated ginger juice usually mixed with water before drinking. Praised for its health benefits.
Oil
Infused cooking oil featuring fragrant ginger flavor. Delicious for dressings or dipping.
The Many Health Benefits of Ginger
Beyond its bold, spicy-sweet flavor, ginger is known for its impressive health-promoting properties.
Digestive Aid
Ginger has a long history of being used as a remedy for digestive issues. Compounds like gingerols and shogaols stimulate production of stomach acids, enzymes, and bile to improve digestion.
Nausea Relief
Clinical research verifies ginger's anti-nausea effects. Consuming ginger is an excellent way to soothe morning sickness, motion sickness, or an upset stomach.
Anti-Inflammatory
Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols similar to NSAIDs that suppress inflammatory compounds like cytokines and prostaglandins.
Pain Relief
As a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, ginger minimizes pain-causing free radicals. This makes it beneficial for relieving sore muscles, joints, and chronic pain.
Immunity Booster
Ginger's antimicrobial and anti-parasitic effects help fight off germs and viruses. Active compounds like gingerol also help strengthen immune response.
Heart Health
Ginger helps lower LDL cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Gingerols prevent fatty deposits from clogging arteries to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease.
Using Ginger in Cooking and Baking
Ginger brings a vibrant, citrusy heat to both sweet and savory recipes. Here are some classic ways to cook with ginger:
Curries
Ginger is an integral ingredient in curry spice blends. It balances out the other warming spices and adds wonderful aroma.
Stir Fries
Complement the salty-sweet flavors by sautéing julienned ginger along with soy sauce, garlic, and veggies.
Marinades
Blending ginger with olive oil, citrus juice, garlic, and herbs makes a tasty meat or veggie marinade.
Tea
Simmer freshly grated ginger in hot water for a soothing ginger tea. Sweeten with honey and squeeze in lemon.
Smoothies
Add a 1 inch knob of ginger to your favorite fruit smoothies. It synergizes wonderfully with ingredients like turmeric, carrot, and citrus.
Baked Goods
Ground ginger shines in gingerbread, molasses crinkles, oatmeal cookies, pumpkin pie, and dark chocolate cakes.
Tips for Preparing and Cooking Ginger
Follow these best practices for prepping and cooking with fresh ginger root:
Peeling
Fresh ginger's skin can be quite thin. Use the edge of a spoon to easily scrape off the peel instead of a vegetable peeler.
Cutting
Slice, mince, or julienne ginger to release its juices and achieve maximum flavor infusion when cooking.
Activating Flavors
Bruise sliced ginger pieces before adding to stir fries or sauces. Crushing releases its essential oils.
Preventing Toughness
Add ginger at the end of cooking Asian noodle or vegetable dishes to preserve its delicate texture.
Storage
Always store fresh ginger wrapped airtight in the fridge. Use sliced ginger within 1-2 weeks.
What Is Ginger? The Takeaway
With its sweetly spicy taste and stellar nutritional profile, ginger is valued in cuisines worldwide. Understanding proper ginger measurements and conversions allows you to easily incorporate it into both cooking and baking.
One inch of fresh ginger equals about 1 tablespoon minced. Ginger's anti-inflammatory powers and digestive health benefits also make it a superfood worthy of keeping stocked in your fridge.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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