If you've ever enjoyed the spicy-sweet zing of candied ginger, you're in for a treat. Creating your own homemade candied ginger not only allows you to control the ingredients but also results in a delightfully fresh snack that's perfect for both eating out of hand and incorporating into various recipes. Here's how you can make this delicious sweet treat right at home.
Ingredients
- Ginger: 1 pound of fresh ginger root.
- Water: For boiling and peeling.
- Sugar: 2 cups for syrup.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, to prevent crystallization.
- Coating Sugar: As needed for drying.
Steps to Make Candied Ginger
1. Prepare the Ginger
Peel the ginger root using a spoon to minimize waste. Slice the ginger into thin pieces, ideally around 1⁄8 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and candy quality.
2. Cook the Ginger
Place the ginger slices in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 30 minutes or until the ginger is tender.
🍵 Note: Boiling the ginger helps to remove some of its natural intensity, making it more suitable for candying.
3. Create the Syrup
Drain the ginger and return it to the pot. Add 2 cups of sugar, 2 cups of water, and the lemon juice. Stir to dissolve the sugar and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours. The goal here is to reduce the syrup to a thick consistency, and the ginger pieces should look translucent.
4. Coat and Dry
Remove the ginger from the syrup, letting excess syrup drip off. Roll the ginger in granulated sugar to coat evenly. Place the coated ginger on a drying rack or a piece of parchment paper. Let it dry for several hours or overnight. If you want a crispier exterior, bake at a low temperature for about an hour, ensuring they don’t become too hard.
5. Storage
Store your candied ginger in an airtight container at room temperature. For a chewier texture, keep a small slice of fresh lemon in the container to retain moisture.
Using Candied Ginger in Recipes
- Baking: Include candied ginger in muffins, cakes, or cookies for an unexpected twist.
- Teas: Use a piece or two to sweeten your herbal tea or hot water.
- Snacks: Toss into trail mixes or just enjoy as is.
- Icing: Chop finely to mix into frostings or icings for a ginger kick.
The process of making candied ginger might seem daunting at first, but it's quite straightforward. The rewards of having this spicy treat, made from the comfort of your home, are well worth the effort. Whether you're looking to add some spice to your baking, or you simply enjoy the unique flavor of ginger, making your own candied ginger opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Plus, it's a great way to impress friends and family with a homemade sweet treat that's both intriguing and delicious. Now, you have the knowledge to craft this delectable snack anytime you crave the warm, sweet taste of ginger.
How long will homemade candied ginger keep?
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Homemade candied ginger can last several weeks to a few months when stored in an airtight container. Keeping it in the refrigerator can extend its shelf life by reducing moisture.
Can I use brown sugar to candy the ginger?
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Yes, brown sugar can add a caramelized flavor to the ginger. However, white sugar is recommended for a more traditional candied ginger taste.
Is there a way to reduce the spiciness of ginger?
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Blanching the ginger slices in boiling water before candying can help reduce some of the intense spiciness. Also, choosing younger ginger roots, which are usually less spicy, can help.
What can I do with leftover ginger syrup?
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The leftover syrup is delicious in cocktails, drizzled over desserts, or used to sweeten teas. It’s also great in marinades or as a base for glazes.
