Ginger is a common cooking ingredient which is used in almost every dish now that can be gingersnap cookies to ginger tea. It has a spicy flavour found in almost every home kitchen cabinet of spices. Now ginger is used in different types out of which the fresh ginger and ginger powder in form of ginger powder is very common. At times, people want to add unique taste to their cooking but don’t know curious to know which type is best. For this, here are the key differences that will help you understand which type will suit your dish the best.
How fresh ginger is different from Ginger powder
Ginger is a spice full of aroma used in cuisine preparations and as medicine too. It has a bold flavour but using it in different ways can impact the preparation of the cuisine and medicine. It is important to understand fresh ginger and ginger powder before we learn about the differences
- Fresh ginger
Fresh ginger is used in cuisine all across the world, from curries and stir-fries to soups. It may be grated or sliced to give teas, smoothies, and lemonades flavor. Fresh ginger also works well in baked goods like gingerbread cookies and cakes. In some Asian countries, it’s even pickled and served as a tangy condiment. Mostly Fresh ginger is used in curries and masala tea as an enhancer but experts also suggest that its nutritional value is good enough to be used as a healthy choice. Fresh ginger has an active compound like gingerol that helps in the digestion process. For arthritis patients, consuming Ginger is advised for its inflammatory properties.
- Ginger powder
You have to dehydrate fresh ginger first and then grind it well to make Ginger powder. This process changes its flavor, making it a concentrated spice. Dry ginger is used in spice mixes like curry powder, pumpkin pie spice, and garam masala, adding a warm, earthy taste. It’s great in gravies, tandoori dishes, and tea. It is frequently used in colder weather to help keep the body warm because of its warming properties. Fresh ginger powder works well for spice blends and longer-lasting culinary products. If you run out of fresh ginger, dried ginger works as a perfect substitute. You can also use ginger powder for ginger baths by mixing it with baking soda.
Ginger Powder and Fresh Ginger Comparison
Compared to dried and powdered ground ginger, fresh ginger is more flavorful and juicy. The flavor of fresh ginger is stronger and sweeter. Ginger powder has less of the essential oils and gingerol, which give fresh ginger its flavor, but it has more shogaol, making it spicier. Ground ginger lasts longer on the shelf and handles high heat better than fresh ginger.
Ginger powder is similar to other spices you might have at home. Good substitutes include cinnamon, grated or ground nutmeg, mace, or allspice. You can also use spice blends with these ingredients, or try ginger’s relatives like turmeric or cardamom. Replacing fresh ginger is trickier because of its complex flavor and fibrous texture. The best substitute is ground ginger.
Conclusion
No doubt both fresh ginger powder and dry ginger have their benefits be it for a good taste or better health. But if you are starting for the first time, especially the ginger powder it should be one-eighth of a teaspoon per fresh ginger tablespoon. Make sure you taste it before adding it completely so the dish doesn’t taste bad. It is good to purchase it fresh from where Earthen Connect is completely natural, pure, and well-packed. Their ranges of products are made with utmost care and are farm authentic.