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Ginger is the soul of Indian cuisine; from a pinch in curries to a hot soothing tea, the usage of ginger varies. This root is widely utilized not only in food but also in medicines due to its medicinal properties. Most people are unaware of how to peel ginger correctly, or if the peels of ginger are useful at all. These peels usually go to waste, and that means missing out on their potential benefits. Living in a world where sustainability and zero waste are of huge importance, finding uses for every part of an ingredient is crucial for ginger peels. Here's a how-to guide on the best ways to peel ginger and some practical suggestions as to how you can make good use of those peels.
Best Ways to Peel Ginger
Peeling ginger could be quite challenging on account of its irregular shape and thin skin, but when correctly done with the right techniques, it becomes an easy task. Here are some of the most effective ways:
Using a Spoon
Peeling ginger with a spoon is the easiest and safest method. Hold the ginger in one hand; use the edge of a spoon against it to scrape the skin off. Because the spoon curves, therefore following the contours of the ginger, it easily cuts away the peel without too much of the flesh being lost. This works great for young ginger since it has thinner skin.
Using a Knife
Alternatively, if you like using a knife, take a small paring knife and make a careful skin cutoff. This is slightly faster, though it takes a little more precision so that you are not cutting away too much of the ginger. Equally, a knife does more work on older ginger because of its tougher skin.
Using a Vegetable Peeler
Another option for peeling ginger is to use a vegetable peeler. This is most effective for bigger, smooth pieces of ginger. Much like using a knife, however, this can be fairly wasteful if one is not careful.
Blanching
Blanching is good for peeling large quantities of ginger in one go. Boil the ginger in water for a minute or two, then immediately plunge it into an ice bath. The skin will loosen up and can be rubbed off with ease. This method works great if you're getting the ginger ready to freeze or to make pastes.
How to Use Ginger Peels
Save your ginger peels after peeling them and do not discard them. They are full of flavour and can be used in the following ways:
Flavoured Tea
Ginger peels will give your tea a different, fresh flavour. Dry peels under the sun and store with your tea leaves. Alternatively, you can boil some fresh ginger peels in water until you get ginger tea. Adding honey, lemon juice, or even cinnamon would bring more flavour to it.
Infused Cooking Oil
Add a few pieces of ginger peels to your oil containers for the oil to take that peculiar flavour of ginger. This enhances the flavor in your dishes, especially when it comes to stir-fries and sautéed vegetables.
Soups
Add ginger peels in soups while they cook to give it depth and warmth in flavor. Remove the peels just before serving so that the texture comes out right.
Ginger Powder
Dry these peels and grind them into powder to be used as a spice in cooking and baking. The powder made from peels is generally milder than from the root itself but adds such a nice, subtle flavour in your dishes.
Natural Cleaning Solution
The peels can also be used in making natural cleaning solutions. Mix the peels with vinegar and allow them to sit for several days. This allows for the infusion of the essence of the ginger into the vinegar. This solution will help clean the kitchen surfaces and appliances, leaving them fresh and naturally scented.
Peel ginger without wasting the peels. Using these simple peeling techniques and creatively reusing the peels are ways to make full use of such versatile ingredients. From amplifying cooking to providing a natural solution for cleaning, ginger peels have various benefits that should not be disposed of.
