As soon as you get fresh ginger root from the grocery, wash them under running water and pat dry using a kitchen towel.
Storing Ginger Root
Kitchen Counter or Pantry: If you're going to use fresh ginger within few days, then store the entire ginger root, in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated cabinet or on kitchen counter, away from sunlight and moisture. For longer storage, store it in fridge or freezer.
Refrigerator: Place the ginger root on a paper towel lined in an airtight container. The paper towel will help absorb any excess moisture and maintain the ginger's freshness. ss moisture. Place it in the crisper drawer in your refrigerator. It can stay fresh upto 2-3 weeks when stored correctly.
Freezer: Freezing the ginger root is an alter method to extend its shelf life. Put the ginger root in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.
Storing Ginger Slices
Peel and slice the ginger into your desired size and transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable ziplock bag.
Store it in the vegetable drawer, it will last for a week. If you want to store for longer, place the ziplock bag or container in the freezer. Use them directly from the frozen state in your recipe.
This is a convenient method to prepare in advance, when you want to use them in soup, infused drinks like ginger lemon tea, bakes goods, and curries. You can also finely chop or mince the ginger slices before using them in the recipes.
Storing Ginger Paste
To make Ginger Paste:Peel the ginger using a spoon or vegetable peeler. Also, remove the bruised part if any. Roughly chop the ginger into 1-inch pieces.Add the chopped ginger, to the blender or food processor. If desired add oil and little salt while blending. There is enough water/moisture content in ginger, so do not add water while blending.
Blend the ingredients until you get your desired consistency (smooth or coarse paste). Make sure to scrape down the sides of the blender at least once in between.
Fridge: Once the ginger paste is ready, You can store it in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Ice cube tray: Put a little ginger paste in a silicone ice cube tray and freeze for approximately 2 hours or until hard. Then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe ziplock storage bag, label the date, seal it tightly before freezing, and freeze for up to 3 months. Take each cube out when required.
Ziplock freezer bag: Transfer the paste to a ziplock freezer bag and spread it thinly, and ensure to push out all the air. Label the date and store it in the freezer. Break it into small pieces and store it back in the freezer.