Ginger: The spicy secret to better health and delicious meals
Most people associate ginger with Asian cuisine, often unaware of its many valuable properties. Discover why it's worth including ginger in your daily diet and learn about its health benefits.
Ginger is a spice with a unique taste and aroma that has captured the hearts of culinary enthusiasts worldwide. Originating from Asia, mainly China and India, it has been used for centuries in both culinary and medicinal practices. The root of this plant quickly gained popularity in Europe as well. It's no surprise that ginger is appreciated for its spicy notes, which pair excellently with a variety of dishes.
Ginger can be found in fresh or dried form, allowing flexibility in its use. Fresh ginger, juicy and sharp in taste, is excellent in infusions or as an addition to tea. On the other hand, dried and powdered ginger is a great ingredient for sweet pastries or aromatic soups. Thanks to its versatile properties, ginger has found many uses in kitchens worldwide.
What are the properties of ginger?
It's not just the taste but also the health properties of ginger that attract the attention of dietitians and doctors. Ginger is rich in vitamins A, C, and E and minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, and iron. A key compound is gingerol, which contributes to its intense, spicy flavor and medicinal properties. Gingerol is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, helping to relieve joint and muscle pain. It also assists in lowering cholesterol levels.
Ginger aids digestion by reducing bloating and stomach discomfort. It also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it an ideal addition during the cold and flu season. It's worth mentioning that regular consumption of ginger can help reduce appetite, aiding in weight management. Fresh ginger in infusions warms you up and supports the immune system.
Powdered ginger can be used to prepare a remedy for a sore throat. Mix ginger with water and use it as a gargle. This mixture also acts refreshingly, reducing unpleasant breath.
Ginger also has expectorant properties and helps thin respiratory secretions, making it useful in treating coughs during infections.
Fresh or dried ginger? A comparison
In our kitchen, we often encounter two types of fresh and dried ginger. Each has unique advantages that can be utilized depending on what we are preparing. Fresh ginger is indispensable in infusions or teas because it contains more vitamin C and enzymes that aid digestion.
Dried ginger has a sharper taste and is well-suited for long-cooking dishes such as curry or soups. The drying process concentrates its antioxidants, including the gingerol above, making it an excellent addition to broths or stews. Therefore, having both types of ginger in the kitchen is beneficial to exploit their full health potential.
Ginger is also a great addition to one-pot dishes, especially those inspired by Asian cuisine. It is also popular in pickled form as an addition to sushi. However, it's crucial to use it moderately, especially for people taking certain medications, as it can affect their effectiveness. Two to four grams (approximately 0.07 to 0.14 ounces) daily are considered sufficient to experience the health benefits without risking unwanted effects.
