Learn various methods for chopping ginger to achieve your desired texture, whether coarse or finely minced.
Instructions
Preparing the Ginger
Prepare the ginger. Ginger typically comes in large pieces with attached branches. Depending on your needs, select a portion from the main root or smaller branches. Trim any excess branches if necessary for peeling.
Peel ginger using a spoon. This method, favored by many chefs, allows for efficient removal of ginger skin while preserving most of the flesh.
Peel ginger with a peeler. Although some ginger may be removed with this method, it's less than when using a knife. Hold the ginger firmly and glide the peeler across it, away from you.
Manual Ginger Mincing
Cut ginger into rounds, then into thin strips, and finally into small cubes for manual mincing. Chop randomly over the cubes for finer pieces if desired.
Cut ginger into strips. This method involves slicing ginger lengthwise into strips, which can then be further cut into matchsticks and cubes.
Crush ginger before mincing. Use a heavy knife to crush thick ginger coins, resulting in easily minceable pieces.
Alternative Ginger Mincing Methods
Grate ginger using a microplane or grater. Collect the pulp that accumulates and ensure to work over a bowl or plate to capture ginger juice.
Utilize a food processor for mincing. Ideal for larger quantities of ginger, freezing ginger for future use is also an option.
Utilize a nutribullet or compact blender. When preparing liquid-based recipes like dressings or marinades, a powerful blender can effectively mince ginger. Ensure to chop ginger loosely and blend thoroughly to avoid large chunks.
Helpful Tips
- Store leftover ginger in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator and use within a few days.
- Select firm and unblemished ginger.
- Choose ginger with a smooth surface for easier cutting.
Essential Equipment
For Peeling
- Tools: Paring knife, peeler, or spoon.
Equipment Needed for Mincing
- Tools: Heavy knife, chopping knife, microplane, chopping board, food processor, blender.