Ginger Drink

Preparing a Hot or Cold Ginger Drink is made by boiling water with ginger. You can use either ginger root or ginger powder for this savory, soothing drink. I personally prefer using fresh ginger root, which is easily found at any grocery store.

What is ginger and its uses

Ginger is a root vegetable that grows underground, native to Southeast Asia, but is now cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It is a flavorful ingredient with a distinct spiciness and pungent aroma.

Ginger is one of the most commonly used spices in the world, adding depth to dishes. It is widely used in various cuisines, especially in Asia, and it is also enjoyed as a soothing drink.

It can be used fresh, dried, powdered, or in its candied form.

In Asian cuisine, fresh ginger is a popular spice as well as fresh onion and garlic. In Filipino cuisine, these three spices, along with tomato are staples when sauteing meat, fish or vegetables. Ginger imparts a pungent and savory flavor to any dish, particularly to the unpleasant fishy taste commonly found in seafood.

During my childhood, my mom often served light meals like Chicken Ginger Soup (Tinolang Manok) at the onset of flu season. I've since integrated it into my daily diet, enjoying ginger tea or a chilled ginger beverage regularly. Similarly, turmeric can be prepared in the same manner, a practice embraced in my brother’s household where turmeric drinks are a staple.

Why i like ginger

Ginger drink is so calming and soothing especially when I have a cold or a nagging cough. During allergy season, which seems to be all year round, ginger is on top of my list as it greatly helps alleviate my symptoms. I always carry sliced fresh ginger to quiet my intermittent, annoying cough.

Before I go on vacation, if I have ginger, lemon or any citrus fruits like kumquat that might go to waste, I boil them together in a pot, creating a refreshing drink to enjoy before my trip.

Tips to make ginger drink

1. Choose ginger with firm texture and smooth skin. Avoid pieces that appear bruised, soft, or wrinkled.
2. Store ginger in plastic in the vegetable bin of your fridge to maintain its freshness.
3. You can also store peeled and sliced ginger in an airtight plastic bag such as zip lock or food saver, in the freezer.
4. The easiest way to peel a ginger is with a spoon.
5. Cut ginger lengthwise into matchstick-like pieces.
6. Boil the ginger and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
7. Once cooled, transfer it to a pitcher and strain the ginger pieces.
8. Enjoy it hot or cold.
9. If desired, add lemon or honey to your drink for extra flavor.

Note: If you like, you can save the ginger pieces in the refrigerator and eat it like candy.

Storing

Store ginger drink up to 4 days in the refrigerator. It is good chilled or warm it in the microwave.

Recipe