Easy ways to retain and store ginger

The soaring prices of ginger has gradually made us realize the value of this quintessential ingredient. But have you ever thought how you can retain the freshness of this versatile ingredient and use it wisely in times of scarcity.

Why ginger?
There’s no denying that ginger is a versatile and flavorful ingredient, which has been used for its potent health benefits and its enticing taste and texture can simply amp up the experience of meals.In times of crisis here are some easy ways to store ginger and use it for a long time.
Refrigeration
Refrigeration is undoubtedly one of the best ways of extending the shelf life of ginger. The easiest ways to restore and retain the freshness of unpeeled ginger is by placing unpeeled ginger root in a resealable plastic bag or wrapping it in a paper towel.
Another way of keeping the ginger fresh for a long time is by wrapping ginger in a paper towel and placing it in the vegetable drawer. This way ginger can be stored for up to 2 to 3 weeks.

Freezing
Peel the ginger root and chop it into small pieces or grate it. Spread the chopped or grated ginger evenly on a tray lined with parchment paper. Place the tray in the freezer until the ginger is frozen.
Transfer to a container
Once frozen, transfer the ginger into a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Frozen ginger can be stored for up to 4 to 6 months.

Ginger paste
Peel the ginger root and blend it into a smooth paste using a food processor or blender. You can also add a small amount of water or oil to make the blending process easier.
Store in a jar:
Transfer the ginger paste into a clean, airtight jar.
Refrigeration:
Keep the jar in the refrigerator.
Duration:
Ginger paste stored this way can last for about 1 to 2 weeks.
Note:
If you have a large piece of ginger and only need a small amount for a recipe, you can break off what you need and keep the rest intact for future use. Avoid washing ginger before storing it, as moisture can contribute to spoilage.