Although fresh ginger resembles a root, it’s actually a flowering plant native to Southeast Asia. You’ll usually find it in the refrigerated produce section, alongside radishes, beets, and similar vegetables. It’s also available in powdered form in the spice aisle.
Ginger isn’t just prized for its bold, zesty flavor—it’s also packed with nutritional benefits, making it a valuable ingredient to keep in your kitchen. If you want to ensure your ginger stays fresh and potent for as long as possible, we’ve got the best storage tips for you.
How to Store Fresh Ginger
To keep your ginger fresh for as long as possible, store it in an airtight food storage container or a sealed plastic bag, ensuring all excess air is removed. Then, place it in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. With this method, ginger can stay fresh for a month—or even longer.
Fresh ginger shines in dishes where its bright, zesty flavor can take center stage. It’s perfect for stir-fries, curries, and soups, and works wonderfully as a marinade for meat or tofu. Its natural tenderizing properties not only enhance texture but also deepen the overall flavor of your dishes.
How to Store Peeled Ginger
Once ginger is peeled, its shelf life shortens due to exposure to oxygen. To keep it fresh, tightly wrap the peeled ginger in plastic wrap and store it in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. When stored properly, peeled ginger can stay fresh for up to three weeks. However, always inspect it before use to ensure no mold has developed.
Peeled ginger is perfect for brewing a comforting ginger tea or adding a zesty kick to smoothies and juices. It’s also an excellent ingredient for baking treats like gingerbread or creating candied ginger for a sweet, spicy snack.
How to Store Minced Ginger
Prepping minced ginger in advance can save time in the kitchen, but it does have a shorter shelf life. Minced ginger will stay fresh for about a week when stored in a sealed, airtight container in the refrigerator.
For the best flavor, use minced ginger as soon as possible. It pairs beautifully with garlic and soy sauce in Asian-inspired dishes and works well in dressings, chutneys, and spreads.
How to Store Pickled Ginger
Unopened pickled ginger can be stored in an airtight glass container in a cool, dark place, like your pantry, for up to six months. Once opened, transfer it to the refrigerator, where it will stay good for about a month—just make sure to toss it if you notice any fuzziness or mold.
Pickled ginger is most commonly served with sushi, but it also makes a great addition to salads, stir-fries, and noodle dishes, adding a tangy, zingy kick.
Can You Freeze Ginger?
Freezing ginger is an excellent way to extend its shelf life, with frozen whole ginger lasting up to five months. Before freezing, wash and thoroughly dry the ginger root to prevent ice crystals from forming, which can alter its texture.
How to Freeze Whole or Sliced Ginger:
- Wash and Dry: Clean the ginger and pat it completely dry.
- Prep for Freezing:
- For whole ginger: Place the unpeeled root directly into a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
- For sliced or grated ginger: Spread the pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for about an hour before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
- Seal and Label: Remove as much air as possible from the bag or container and label it with the freezing date.
When you’re ready to use frozen ginger, there’s no need to thaw it. You can grate or slice it straight from the freezer. However, if you need a softer texture, let it thaw for a few minutes before use.
Freezing ginger ensures you always have this flavorful ingredient on hand, ready to add a burst of spice to your favorite recipes!