Ginger is a widely used spice. Beneath the soil, the rhizome of the ginger plant thrives, displaying a palette of hues ranging from yellow to white to red, depending on the specific variety. Its outer shell, tinged with nuances shades, reveals a changing thickness, influenced by the ripeness of the plant at harvest time. With its robust, ridged consistency, ginger is celebrated for its aromatic yet pungent flavor profile. Native to Southeast Asia, this precious rhizome is used in a variety of local dishes and is mentioned in ancient Chinese and Indian manuscripts. Over the centuries, it has been praised not only for its culinary importance, but also for its potential medicinal attributes.

Nutritional highlights of ginger

During the winter season, ginger demonstrates its ability to generate heat within the body, resulting in light sweating that proves particularly beneficial during periods of colds and flus. This form of light sweating provides more than just detoxification benefits. Recently, German researchers made some enlightening discoveries concerning a robust component present in sweat, which fights pathogens and could contribute to the defense against infections. The scientists succeeded in identifying the specific gene responsible for this substance and the protein derived from it, dubbed "dermicidin". This unique substance is produced in the body's sweat glands, then excreted in sweat and transported to the skin surface, where it offers protection against invading micro-organisms. These micro-organisms include bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus (a common cause of skin infections), as well as fungi such as Candida albicans.

Exploiting the medicinal properties of ginger does not require excessive use, due to its concentration. This exceptional root is capable of relieving nausea, and making your own ginger tea is a simple way to benefit from it. You can make ginger tea by infusing one or two half-inch slices of fresh ginger (equivalent to about 2/3 of an ounce) in a large cup of hot water. For optimum effect, enjoy the tea gradually. Ginger is also effective in soothing gastrointestinal disorders, as well as in combating motion sickness, particularly nausea at sea.

Choosing and storing ginger

If you're looking for ginger with optimum flavor and high levels of gingerol (an anti-inflammatory compound), choose fresh varieties. When buying fresh ginger roots, choose those that are firm, smooth and free of any signs of mould. Because of its hard, brownish outer layer, ginger generally needs to be peeled. To extend the shelf-life of fresh ginger, unpeeled pieces can be stored in the fridge for around three weeks. Unpeeled ginger can be stored in the freezer for up to two months.

Tips for preparing ginger

Start by using a paring knife to peel the skin from fresh ginger. Next, ginger can be sliced, minced or julienned, depending on your preference. The impact of ginger on a dish depends on when it is introduced into the cooking process. Introducing ginger at the beginning of cooking gives a milder flavor, while incorporating it towards the end of cooking gives a more pronounced flavor.

For a change of pace, try ginger lemonade. This concoction is a simple fusion of freshly grated ginger, lemon juice, cane juice or honey and water. For added freshness, add ice cubes.

Enhance the appeal of your rice by infusing it with freshly grated ginger, toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley. Experiment by combining freshly grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil and garlic to create an exceptional vinaigrette. To enrich the flavor profile of mashed sweet potatoes, introduce a blend of ginger and orange juice.

Why choose organic ginger?

1. Reduced exposure to chemicals: Organic ginger is grown without pesticides, herbicides or synthetic fertilizers. By choosing organic ginger, you reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals commonly used in conventional agriculture.
2. Environmental impact: Organic farming practices prioritize sustainability and soil health. By choosing organic ginger, you are supporting more environmentally-friendly farming methods, which promote soil conservation and reduce water pollution.
3. Preserving soil health: Organic farming tends to focus on building and maintaining healthy soil through practices such as crop rotation, composting and natural fertilizers. Healthy soil contributes to better plant growth and higher nutrient content in produce.
4. Biodiversity: Organic farms often promote biodiversity by avoiding monoculture, thus reducing dependence on a single crop and preserving local ecosystems.
5. No GMOs: Organic ginger is not genetically modified. If you prefer to avoid genetically modified organisms, organic products are a good choice.
6. Quality and flavor: Some people believe that organic products, including ginger, have better flavor and quality because of the natural, holistic farming practices used to grow them.
7. Support for sustainable agriculture: By choosing organic products, you're supporting agricultural practices that promote long-term sustainability and the health of consumers and the environment.

Recipes with ginger