Ginger is a spicy, sweet, woodsy root that adds heat and warmth to an array of sweet and savory dishes. Here is a complete guide on how to store ginger in the fridge and freezer and make it last longer, along with tips on how and where to buy it.
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Let's talk about ginger!
Ginger root is a foundation of Indian and Asian cuisine, and I use it in almost every recipe. I love its somewhat woodsy yet sweet pop of flavor.
Since many of my readers have asked me how to store fresh ginger and what to do with leftover ginger, I thought it would be useful to share my tips and tricks on this incredible root.
Once you're done reading, continue on to finish the series with How to Cut Ginger and How to Make Ginger Paste or Ginger Garlic Paste. The Cooking 101 Series has more recipes on kitchen basics and common "how-tos."
After reading this post, you'll never throw out this spicy golden root again!
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What is Ginger?
Ginger is a flowering plant in the Zingiberaceae family. It is closely related to turmeric, cardamom, and galangal (Thai ginger). We use the root, or rhizome, as the spice. It is jagged and oddly shaped, with a light tan outer peel and golden yellow middle.
Fun Fact: The entire root end is known as a hand of ginger, while the jagged ends are called a knob of ginger. When a recipe calls for a knob, it is typically referring to a 2-inch piece. A thumb of ginger is a 1-inch piece.
What does ginger taste like?
Ginger can be used in just about every form-fresh, frozen, dried, powdered, or as an oil or juice. Its spicy, sweet, warming flavor makes it the perfect addition to both sweet and savory recipes. Ginger is also common in beverages and is one of the primary ingredients in Ginger tea and Masala Chai.
How to Buy Ginger?
The large ginger roots you typically see in the produce section of larger supermarkets are lighter in color and flavor than the organic ginger, which is smaller, brighter, and spicier.
A few tips to keep in mind when buying fresh ginger:
- The root should be firm and heavy for its size.
- The knobs should be smooth and shiny, with no signs of bruising or mold.
- Steer clear of ginger roots with wrinkles on the outer surface (this is a sign that the ginger has started to deteriorate).
- Purchase from Indian or international markets, as the prices are usually better.
- A 1-inch piece of ginger is the equivalent of 1 grated Tablespoon-a good ratio to keep in mind when choosing the right size.
- Every piece of ginger varies in size, so pick up a large or small one depending on your needs.
How to Store Ginger
Ginger is easy to store on the kitchen counter, in the fridge, or in the freezer.
As soon as I get home from the grocery store, I wash the outer surface of the ginger root and leave it on my counter to dry out. You can also dry it with a clean kitchen towel. You want to ensure it is completely dry before storing it, following any of the methods below.
How to Store Ginger Root
Kitchen Counter: If I know I will use it in the next few days, I store fresh ginger root on the kitchen counter or in a cool, dark place (typically with my potatoes, onions, and garlic). But for longer storage, I go for the fridge or freezer.
Refrigerator: Place the unpeeled ginger root in a plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal it tight, and stash it in your crisper drawer. The ginger should last up to one month. Just make sure to check it for mold before using it.
If you're looking to get ahead, you can also peel the ginger first and store it as directed, but the ginger will not last as long. Note: I have also tried wrapping the ginger root in a paper towel and plastic wrap, but the Ziplock storage bag works best for me!
Freezer: Peel the entire ginger root, then place it in a freezer-safe plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal it tight, and place it in the freezer. The ginger should last indefinitely.
When ready to use, there is no need to thaw! Simply grate the amount of ginger you need (it's actually easier to grate with a Microplane from frozen) and place it back in the freezer, making sure to squeeze out all the air.
Storing Ginger Slices
Ginger slices are a nice way to get ahead, especially when you want to use them to steep tea.
Peel and slice to your desired size, then place in a plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal tight and place in the vegetable drawer. The ginger should last a few weeks.
For longer storage, place the sealed plastic bag or container in the freezer. Use right from frozen in your recipe.
Storing Ginger Paste
Ginger paste is another meal prep trick so you're one step ahead when planning to cook your recipe.
To make ginger paste: Peel the entire ginger root from top to bottom (feel free to leave the peel intact), then cut into slices for easier blending. Place the ginger slices in a blender or food processor and blend to your desired texture (coarse to super-fine).
The ginger root contains enough water to not need to be added. That being said, it is a good idea to blend a larger portion of ginger rather than a smaller quantity. There is not enough water to blend to the right consistency when using a small quantity.
Check out Ginger Paste recipe to learn more about how to store in the fridge and freezer, and how to use it!
To peel or not to peel? Through my research, I have found that peeling ginger is optional. Although not peeling it saves a step, I prefer to peel the ginger root partially, especially if it has a thicker skin since that alters the taste and texture. This is more about personal preference, so feel free to do what works for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
When stored properly, unpeeled ginger root will last up to one month in the fridge, while peeled ginger root should last up to a few weeks.
Yes, ginger can be stored at room temperature if you plan on using it within a week. Simply keep it on a plate on your kitchen counter or store it in a cool, dark place alongside your potatoes.
You sure can! Place the whole ginger root (either peeled or unpeeled) in a plastic freezer bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze. When ready to use, remove the ginger from the freezer and grate as much as you need (there is no need to thaw). Return the ginger to the freezer, pushing out as much air as possible.
If you have peeled or sliced too much ginger than you need, you can preserve it in a jar of dry sherry or vodka (note that ginger stored in sherry will pick up some of its flavor). When stored in the fridge, it will keep for up to 3 months.
Tips & Notes
- Ginger Buying Tips: Look for ginger root that is firm and heavy for its size. The knobs should be smooth and shiny, with no signs of bruising or mold.
- Substitute for fresh ginger: For every 1-inch piece (or 1 grated Tablespoon) of fresh ginger, use ¼ teaspoon ginger powder.
- Storing for immediate use: Fresh ginger root can be stored on the kitchen counter or in a cool, dark place for up to 10 days.
- Refrigerate for a month: Place the unpeeled ginger root in a plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal it tight, and stash it in your crisper drawer.
- To freeze for indefinite use, Peel the entire ginger root, then place it in a freezer-safe plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal it tight, and place it in the freezer.
- Storing Slices: Peel and slice to your desired size, then place in a plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal tight, and place in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator for a few weeks or in the freezer for a few months.
- Storing ginger paste: Peel the ginger root (or leave the peel intact), then cut into slices. Blend the slices to your desired texture. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. Or, transfer to ice cube trays and freeze for months.
- Dried Ginger Substitute: Can't find fresh ginger at the grocery store? For every 1-inch piece (or 1 grated Tablespoon) of fresh ginger, use ¼ teaspoon of ginger powder. Just know that the flavor will be slightly different.
More Cooking 101 Recipes
This post is part of the Cooking 101 Series. Check it out for more time-saving Meal Prep recipes.
📖 Recipe
How to Store Ginger
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound ginger root
Instructions
Prep Ginger
- Wash the outer surface of the ginger root and leave it on the counter to dry out. Alternatively, dry it with a clean kitchen towel. You want to make sure it is completely dry before storing it following any of the methods below.
Storing Ginger Root
- Kitchen Counter: Store fresh ginger root on the kitchen counter or in a cool, dark place (typically with potatoes). Use within 10 days.
- Refrigerator: Place the unpeeled ginger root in a plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal tight and stash it in your crisper drawer. The ginger should last up to 1 month. Just make sure to check it for mold before using.
- Freezer: Peel the entire ginger root, then place it in a freezer-safe plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal tight and place it in the freezer. The ginger should last indefinitely.
Storing Ginger Slices
- Peel and slice to your desired size, then place in a plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal tight and place in the vegetable drawer. The ginger should last a few weeks.For longer storage, place the sealed plastic bag or container in the freezer. Use right from frozen in your recipe.
Storing Ginger Paste
- To make ginger paste: Peel the entire ginger root from top to bottom (or leave the peel intact), then cut into slices for easier blending. Place the ginger slices in a blender or food processor and blend to your desired texture (coarse to super-fine). Place in an airtight container and store in the fridge to use within 1 week.
- For longer storage, place in a small silicone ice cube tray and freeze until firm, about 1 hour. Transfer the cubes to a plastic freezer storage bag, label, date, seal tight and freeze for up to 6 months.
Notes
- Ginger Buying Tips: Look for ginger root that is firm and heavy for it's size. The knobs should be smooth and shiny, with no signs of bruising or mold.
- Substitute for fresh ginger: For every 1-inch piece (or 1 grated Tablespoon) of fresh ginger, use ¼ teaspoon ginger powder.
- Storing for immediate use: Store fresh ginger root on the kitchen counter or in a cool, dark place for up to 10 days.
- Refrigerate for a month: Place the unpeeled ginger root in a plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal tight and stash it in your crisper drawer.
- Freeze for indefinite use: Peel the entire ginger root, then place it in a freezer-safe plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal tight and place it in the freezer.
- Storing Slices: Peel and slice to your desired size, then place in a plastic storage bag or airtight container, seal tight and place in the vegetable drawer of refrigerator for few weeks, or freezer for few months.
- Storing ginger paste: Peel the ginger root (or leave the peel intact), then cut into slices. Blend the slices to your desired texture. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. Or, transfer to ice cube trays and freeze for months.
LR says
Thanks. I just found your post. I buy ginger all the time but it seems to always go-to waste.????
Aneesha says
Thank you, I'm glad you found it useful!
Rebecca Rustin says
thank you i have 3 lbs from Costco!!
Aneesha says
You're most welcome!