Spice | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Ginger

Zingiber officinale Allergen-Free
ginger

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Zingiberaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global (especially Asian, Indian)
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Ginger plant rhizome

The Forktionary Angle

"The spicy root that elevates both cuisine and wellness."

Definition

The pungent, aromatic rhizome of a flowering plant, widely used as a spice and traditional medicine.

Sensory Profile

TastePungent, Spicy, Warm, Citrusy, Woody
TextureFibrous, Juicy, Crisp (when raw)
AromaPungent, Spicy, Fresh, Lemony
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Active Compound

Gingerol

Culinary Forms Used

Fresh, Dried, Powdered, Candied, Pickled

Shelf Life (Refrigerated)

3-4 weeks (unpeeled)

Nutrition Facts

Per 5 g (1 tsp grated)
Calories80 kcal
Total Fat0.8 g
Saturated Fat0.2 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.8 g
Total Carbohydrate17.7 g
Dietary Fiber2 g
Total Sugars1.7 g
Calcium16 mg
Iron0.6 mg
Potassium415 mg

Chef’s Secret

To easily peel ginger, scrape it with the edge of a spoon. For maximum flavor, add fresh ginger at the end of cooking.

Substitutions

Best Match

Galangal

1:1

Closest flavor profile, but more peppery and piney. Good for Southeast Asian dishes.

Ginger Powder

1/2 tsp powder for 1 tbsp fresh grated

Good for flavor, but lacks freshness and texture. Use in cooked dishes.

Allspice

1/2 tsp for 1 tbsp fresh grated

Offers warmth and some spice, but a different flavor profile. Best for baking.

Ground Cardamom

1/4 tsp for 1 tbsp fresh grated

Provides aromatic warmth, but is more floral and less pungent.

Buying Guide

Look for firm, smooth skin, free of mold. Store unpeeled in a cool, dry place or refrigerated.

Flavor Pairings

Garlic Soy Sauce Chili Lemon Lime Turmeric Honey Chicken Fish.

Recipes Using Ginger

Fall Vegetables Low Calorie Puddings And Mousses

Abby's Pumpkin Pie Crustless Custard

Skip the crust, not the flavor! This light and low-fat pumpkin pie custard is a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for a cozy autumn evening, this recipe is surprisingly easy and can be baked in ramekins, custard cups, or even coffee mugs! Enjoy the creamy texture and warm spices of pumpkin pie without the heavy crust.

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Potatoes Low Calorie Gluten Free Clear Soups

African Sweet Potato And Peanut Soup

A vibrant and flavorful West African-inspired soup, adapted from the Moosewood Cookbook. This hearty recipe combines sweet potatoes, peanuts, and warming spices for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a flavorful weeknight dinner. Easily customizable with your favorite fruit or vegetable juices! (Wine, apricot, or tomato juice are great substitutes.)

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North American Course Main Ingredient North American

Alaskan Sourdough Blueberry Gingerbread

Warm up your kitchen with this irresistible Alaskan Sourdough Blueberry Gingerbread! Inspired by julesong's recipe #7020, this twist features the bright burst of fresh Alaskan blueberries, creating a unique and unforgettable gingerbread experience. Get ready for a comforting treat with the perfect balance of tangy sourdough, spicy ginger, and juicy blueberries. Perfect for a cozy evening or festive gathering!

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High In Something Broil Beef Easy

Alexa's Cilantro Ginger Flank Steak

This unbelievably flavorful Cilantro-Ginger Flank Steak recipe is a game-changer! A coworker's secret, this simple recipe delivers incredible results whether grilled or broiled. The vibrant marinade, bursting with cilantro and ginger, is amazing on all meats – even chicken or pork! Get ready for tender, juicy steak with a zesty kick. Prep time includes a minimum 1-hour marinade (but overnight is even better!).

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American Main Ingredient One Dish Meal For 1 Or 2

Almost Instantaneous Corn Chowder

This incredibly easy ramen-based corn chowder is a lifesaver on busy weeknights! Ready in under 15 minutes, this cheap and cheerful recipe uses pantry staples for a creamy, flavorful soup that's perfect for students and busy families. Get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of deliciousness without spending hours in the kitchen!

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Vegan Healthy Cuisine Low In Something

Amber's Japan Style Tofu Meal

A quick and healthy weeknight meal inspired by recipe #171417! This vibrant Japan-style tofu dish is packed with flavor and surprisingly simple to make. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious supper in under 40 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights! Get ready for a taste of Japan in your own kitchen!

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Main Dish Dietary Low Sodium Preparation

American Curried Beef

Boost your brainpower and your dinner table with this easy American Curried Beef recipe! Recent research suggests that curry may help protect against Alzheimer's disease. This recipe uses common American ingredients and cooks in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Customize the spice level to your liking – adjust the curry powder for a milder or bolder flavor. Serve over fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Main Ingredient Easy Cuisine Main Ingredient

American Poverty Pudding Circa 1933

Step back in time with this nostalgic American Poverty Pudding recipe, a heartwarming baked sweet treat from a 1933 cookbook! Made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients, this cornflake-based pudding is surprisingly delicious and perfect for a cozy evening. Learn the secrets passed down through generations and experience a taste of history – with an optional upgrade for when times are better!

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Served Hot Fruit North American Poultry

Apple And Tea Brine Injected Rubbed And Deep Fried Turkey

Get ready for the crispiest, juiciest turkey of your life! This recipe combines brining, injecting, dry rubbing, and deep frying for an unforgettable Fourth of July (or any occasion!) feast. Achieve perfectly cooked turkey in just 35 minutes cooking time (plus a 15-hour prep). This method is surprisingly quick, and the results are stunning – incredibly flavorful, with unbelievably crispy skin. Don't be intimidated by the multiple steps; each one adds to the amazing final product. Choose one or all of the methods to customize your perfect turkey! Note: the dark color from the rub and frying makes the turkey appear darker than usual, but the inside is perfectly cooked.

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Time To Make Brunch Dietary Low Saturated Fat

Apple Spice Applesauce Muffins

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with these irresistible Apple Spice Applesauce Muffins! Perfectly spiced and moist, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Customize it to your liking – add other fruits, experiment with different spices, or even create a delicious applesauce-only version. These muffins are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack.

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Low Protein 4 Hours Or Less Berries Desserts

Apple Cranberry Crisp

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with this Apple Cranberry Crisp recipe, inspired by Cook's Country's episode 105, "Autumn Supper." A perfectly sweet and tart combination of juicy apples and cranberries, topped with a buttery, crunchy oat crumble. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a delightful Thanksgiving dessert!

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Lemon Stove Top High In Something Apples

Apple Raisin Stuffed Pork Chops

Juicy pork chops get a sweet and savory makeover with this delightful Apple Raisin Stuffed recipe! Sun-Maid raisins add a burst of sweetness, perfectly complementing the tart apples and crunchy walnuts in a flavorful stuffing. This recipe boasts incredible texture and flavor in every bite, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a show-stopping meal for guests. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Low Saturated Fat Condiments Etc Low In Something Healthy 2

Apricot Dipping Sauce

Sweet and tangy apricot dipping sauce – the perfect complement to your favorite wontons, egg rolls, or even chicken! This easy 15-minute recipe bursts with fresh apricot flavor and is guaranteed to impress your guests. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Side Dishes Time To Make Asian 30 Minutes Or Less

Aromatic Vegetable Fried Rice Su Cai Chao Fan

Unlock the secret to unbelievably flavorful fried rice! This Aromatic Vegetable Fried Rice (Su Cai Chao Fan) recipe starts with a key step: tossing cooked rice in peanut oil for a nutty base. Then, we build layers of flavor with vibrant vegetables stir-fried to perfection in sesame and peanut oil. For an extra touch of authenticity, make your own simple vegetable stock (recipe #424266 – minimal effort, maximum flavor!), or use a store-bought broth. Get ready for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Course Pasta Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient

Asian Chicken And Snow Pea Noodle Bowl

This vibrant and flavorful Asian Chicken & Snow Pea Noodle Bowl is a quick and easy weeknight meal! Tender chicken, crisp snow peas, and delicious noodles are tossed in a savory broth, making for a satisfying and healthy dish. Easily adaptable to your taste – substitute beef for chicken and beef broth for chicken broth to create a delicious beef noodle bowl! Vegetarian? Simply use tofu and vegetable broth instead of chicken and chicken broth. Customize your spice level and add extra bouillon for a richer flavor. Get ready for a culinary adventure in just 30 minutes!

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Low Cholesterol Pasta Rice And Grains Cuisine Asian

Asian Cucumbers And Pasta

Spice up your weeknight dinner with this vibrant Asian Peanut Noodle recipe! Warm cucumbers, tossed in a creamy peanut butter sauce with zesty ginger and savory soy, create a surprisingly delicious and refreshing twist on traditional pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

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4 Hours Or Less Taste Mood Time To Make Dietary

Asian Lentil Loaf

This hearty Asian-inspired lentil loaf is a vegetarian dream come true! Packed with flavor and texture, it's perfect as a satisfying main course or a delicious side dish alongside roasted potatoes. Imagine tender lentils, savory sauteed vegetables, and aromatic spices creating a comforting loaf that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful. Leftovers are even better, transforming into fantastic sandwiches or wraps for lunch the next day! Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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For 1 Or 2 Main Dish Poultry Time To Make

Asian Spicy Chicken Thighs

Fire up your taste buds with this explosive Asian Spicy Chicken Thighs recipe! Inspired by a classic Asian grilled chicken, we've cranked up the heat and flavor for a truly unforgettable dish. Juicy chicken thighs (or breasts!) are marinated in a vibrant blend of spices, then baked to perfection. Serve alongside your favorite sides like asparagus, grilled Brussels sprouts, curry couscous, or rice pilaf for a complete and satisfying meal. Ready in under an hour!

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