Creative ways to use ginger in your meals
What's the story
Ginger, a kitchen staple, is known for its distinct flavor and health benefits.
Though mostly linked with teas and desserts, ginger can be used as a versatile ingredient in vegetarian dishes.
Its unique taste can amp the flavors of your various meals, giving both culinary and nutritional benefits.
Here are some unexpected ways you can add ginger to everyday vegetarian cooking.
Stir-fry boost
Ginger in stir-fried vegetables
Adding ginger to stir-fried vegetables can take the dish's flavor profile to another level.
A dash of freshly grated ginger can add a zesty kick that goes well with the natural sweetness of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli.
The heat from the ginger goes well with soy sauce or tamari, creating a balanced taste that makes the entire dish even better but not overpowering.
Soup enhancement
Ginger-infused soups
If you are a vegetarian, ginger can be an excellent addition to your soups.
Be it a classic vegetable soup or something more exotic like coconut curry soup, adding sliced or grated ginger while cooking infuses warmth and depth into the broth.
The subtle spiciness of ginger goes well with ingredients like garlic and lemongrass, making it an ideal choice for hearty soups.
Dressing twist
Ginger in salad dressings
Incorporating ginger in salad dressings gives a refreshing twist to the traditional flavors.
Blend fresh ginger with olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and soy sauce or vinegar to create a tangy dressing that adds complexity to the salads.
This combination goes especially well with leafy greens like spinach or arugula and complements toppings like nuts or seeds.
Baking surprise
Baking with ginger
Ginger isn't just for savory dishes; it also shines in baking.
Adding ground ginger to baked goods like cookies or muffins introduces a warm spice that pairs beautifully with cinnamon or nutmeg.
For those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, try incorporating crystallized ginger pieces into your favorite recipes for an unexpected burst of flavor.
Tea infusion
Ginger tea as cooking liquid
Using brewed ginger tea as a cooking liquid is another innovative way to incorporate this spice into vegetarian dishes.
Substitute water/broth with strong brewed ginger tea when cooking grains like rice/quinoa for an added flavor complexity without the extra calories.
This way, you can infuse subtle notes throughout each grain, all while keeping their natural texture intact.