Ginger Powder

Ginger Powder is a versatile spice derived from dried and ground ginger root. It is available throughout the year and is a key ingredient in various spice blends. Ginger Powder is commonly used in Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Caribbean cuisines, imparting a warm, slightly sweet, and spicy flavor to dishes. It is often used in baking, marinades, curries, and spice rubs.

Ginger Powder Synonyms

Ground ginger
Ginger spice

Ginger Powder Substitutes

Different Forms/Types of Ginger Powder

Paste

Ginger that has been pureed into a paste, often blended with oil or vinegar, used for its convenience and ease of mixing into dishes.

Pickled

Ginger slices that have been brined or vinegar-pickled, commonly served with sushi as a palate cleanser.

Fresh bulbs

Whole, unprocessed ginger roots, ideal for grating, slicing, or mincing to infuse fresh, pungent flavor into dishes.

Crystallized

Ginger that has been cooked in sugar syrup and dried, often used as a sweet and spicy snack or in baking.

Dried and ground

Ginger that has been dehydrated and ground into a fine powder, convenient for a quick and consistent ginger flavor in recipes.

How to Choose Ginger Powder

When purchasing fresh ginger, look for roots that are firm, smooth, and free of mold. The skin should be thin and the flesh should have a bright, spicy aroma. For dried and ground ginger, choose brands that have a strong, spicy scent and no signs of clumping, which can indicate moisture exposure. For ginger paste, pickled ginger, and crystallized ginger, check for freshness and avoid products with artificial preservatives or excessive sugar.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Ginger Powder

Ginger powder is a versatile spice that can add warmth and depth to a variety of dishes. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to understand that ginger powder is more concentrated and intense in flavor than fresh ginger, so it should be used sparingly. Typically, a quarter teaspoon of ginger powder can substitute for one tablespoon of fresh ginger. Ginger powder is best added early in the cooking process to allow its flavor to meld with other ingredients. However, prolonged cooking at high temperatures can cause it to lose some of its potency, so in some recipes, it may be beneficial to add an additional pinch towards the end of cooking for a more pronounced ginger flavor.

Shelf Life of Ginger Powder

Fresh ginger should be stored in the refrigerator, where it can last for several weeks. Wrap it in a paper towel and place it in a plastic bag to prevent moisture from causing mold. Dried and ground ginger should be stored in a cool, dark place in an airtight container to maintain its potency for up to two years. Crystallized ginger can be stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for up to a year. Pickled ginger should be refrigerated and used within two months, while ginger paste should be refrigerated and used by the expiration date on the package.

Recommended Brands for Ginger Powder

ginger paste: Gourmet Garden

pickled ginger: Eden Foods

crystallized ginger: The Ginger People

dried and ground ginger: McCormick

Cooking Techniques for Ginger Powder

Baking: Ginger powder is a key ingredient in many baked goods, such as gingerbread and spice cakes. It provides a warm, spicy note that complements sweet flavors.

Dry Rubs: Ginger powder is often used in dry rubs for meats. It can be combined with other spices to create a flavorful crust that enhances the meat's natural flavors.

Sauce and Marinade Preparation: Incorporating ginger powder into sauces and marinades can impart a warm, spicy kick. It's especially popular in Asian cuisine, where it's used in everything from stir-fry sauces to marinades for meat.

Popular Ginger Powder Recipes

Gingerbread Cookies
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Moroccan Tagine

Ginger Powder Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 4.24 g
fiber: 14.1 g
sugar: 3.39 g
protein: 8.98 g
calories: 335 kcal
carbohydrates: 71.62 g

Flavor Combinations

Ginger powder pairs well with sweet ingredients like honey, molasses, and brown sugar, which can balance its spiciness. It also complements a variety of fruits, including apples, pears, and oranges. In savory dishes, ginger powder works well with soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves can be combined with ginger powder to create complex, layered flavors in both sweet and savory recipes.

Allergen Information

Ginger allergies are rare but can manifest as skin reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort. Those with ginger allergies should avoid ginger in all forms, including fresh, dried, and powdered.

Ingredient Comparisons

Recipes with Ginger Powder

Tandoori Style Chicken Breast