Can You Freeze Ginger?
Yes, ginger freezes excellently for up to 6 months and is actually easier to grate when frozen. Store whole unpeeled ginger root in a freezer bag and grate directly from frozen as needed. The flavor and potency remain strong.
Key Takeaways
- Freezing ginger is the best way to preserve fresh ginger root for extended periods.
- Frozen ginger grates into fine, almost powdery shreds; adjust amounts if you prefer larger pieces.
- The skin becomes papery thin when grating frozen ginger, so peeling is unnecessary.
Explanation
Freezing ginger is the best way to preserve fresh ginger root for extended periods. Unlike refrigeration where ginger eventually shrivels and molds, frozen ginger maintains its flavor and aroma for months.
The easiest method is freezing whole, unpeeled ginger root. Simply place it in a freezer bag with excess air removed. When you need ginger, grate it directly from frozen using a microplane - no thawing or peeling needed. The frozen texture makes grating easier.
You can also peel and slice, mince, or puree ginger before freezing. Frozen ginger paste or minced ginger in ice cube trays provides convenient pre-measured portions for cooking.
Things to Know
- Frozen ginger grates into fine, almost powdery shreds; adjust amounts if you prefer larger pieces.
- The skin becomes papery thin when grating frozen ginger, so peeling is unnecessary.
- Thawed ginger becomes soft and mushy; plan to grate while frozen or use in smoothies.