Ginger paste

Ginger paste is a homemade condiment which can be used in a variety of dishes such as curries, soups and stir fries.

This kitchen staple is a useful prepare-ahead ingredient which will save you time when cooking meals. Make it when you have time, and then instead of chopping or grating fresh ginger each time you need it simply use your homemade ginger paste straight from the fridge or freezer.

It is made by blending fresh ginger into a paste. You can blend it on its own or with a little oil or water.

You can store it in the fridge or freezer ready to add to dishes such as sweet potato and ginger soup, spicy carrot soup or cauliflower and chick pea curry.

This ginger paste recipe can be prepared using any quantity of ginger you like.

Ingredients

• Fresh ginger

How to prepare

Peel the ginger and cut into pieces. If the peel is thin there is no need to peel the root. Simply wash and dry the ginger and proceed to prepare your paste.

Place in a food processor. Alternatively, you can grate the ginger by hand.

Blend until the ginger turn to a pulp.

Options

You can add a little water or oil to the paste depending on how you plan to use the paste. For some dishes such as curries this is not likely to an affect how your dish turns out but for other uses such as drinks or desserts you may prefer an oil free version.

How to store

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge where it will keep for several days.
• Freeze as a thin sheet in an airtight bag. Simply break off the quantity you need and return the rest to the freezer.

How to use

• Homemade ginger paste can be used fresh or straight from the freezer.
• I would typically use around 1 tablespoon of ginger paste when preparing a curry dish for two but adjust according to your recipe or preference.
• Add to Indian inspired dishes such as this easy lentil dahl recipe or this quick curry recipe with cauliflower and chick peas.
• Use to season soups such as this sweet potato and ginger soup or this spicy carrot soup recipe.
• Add to stir fries.

Other homemade condiments and seasonings