19 Japanese Young Ginger Recipe Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
When it comes to Japanese cuisine, one ingredient that stands out for its unique flavor and health benefits is young ginger. Unlike the fully grown ginger root, young ginger is harvested early, while the plant is still young and tender. This gives it a milder and sweeter taste, making it a popular choice for cooking in Japan. In this article, we'll explore the many ways young ginger can be incorporated into dishes, as well as its nutritional value and potential health benefits.
Main Ingredients: Young Ginger, Coarse Salt, Apple Cider Vinegar, Sugar
One of the best ways to enjoy the tangy and spicy flavors of ginger is by pickling it. This easy recipe for pickled young ginger is a perfect accompaniment to any dish, but it goes especially well with beer can chicken. The sourness of the pickled ginger balances out the richness of the chicken, making for a perfectly balanced meal. Plus, the bright pink color of the pickled ginger adds a pop of color to the dish, making it both delicious and visually appealing.
Gari, or Japanese pickled ginger, is a staple side dish in Japanese cuisine. Made from young ginger, this pickled ginger is sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy. It is usually served with sushi or sashimi to cleanse the palate between bites. However, gari also pairs well with beer can chicken. The sweetness of the pickled ginger complements the savory flavors of the chicken, making for a delicious combination. Plus, the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger make this dish not only tasty but also healthy.
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Miso Udon Noodle Soup
Main Ingredients: Udon Noodles, Flour, Salt, Gluten, Rice Noodles, Dashi
Looking for a warm and comforting meal to pair with beer can chicken? Look no further than miso udon noodle soup. This hearty soup is made with thick udon noodles, flavorful miso broth, and tender chicken. The addition of ginger gives the soup a subtle kick and adds depth to the flavors. It's the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold evening while enjoying a cold beer and juicy chicken.
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Thai Chicken & Ginger Stir-fry
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Vegetable Oil, Garlic Cloves, Onion
Stir-fries are a quick and easy way to incorporate ginger into your meals. This Thai chicken and ginger stir-fry is no exception. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and aromatic herbs and spices creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. The ginger adds a zesty and slightly spicy element to the stir-fry, making it a perfect pairing with beer can chicken. Plus, this dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for a busy weeknight meal.
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Easy Pickled Ginger (Gari)
Main Ingredients: Young Ginger, Coarse Sea Salt, Water, Ginger, Caster
If you're looking for a quick and easy pickled ginger recipe, look no further. This recipe for easy pickled ginger requires only four ingredients and takes just 15 minutes to make. The result is sweet, tangy, and slightly crunchy pickled ginger that is perfect for adding to your beer can chicken. The best part? You can adjust the sweetness and spiciness to your liking, making it a versatile condiment for any dish.
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Acar Darat/Acar Rampai Orang Johor
Main Ingredients: Seeds, Carrot, Turmeric Powder, Red Chilies, Garlic
Acar darat, also known as acar rampai orang Johor, is a traditional Malaysian dish that is a must-try for any ginger lover. This dish is made by pickling a variety of vegetables, including cucumber, carrots, and ginger, in a sweet and sour sauce made with vinegar, sugar, and spices. The ginger adds a zesty and slightly spicy kick to the dish, making it a perfect pairing with beer can chicken. Plus, the colorful vegetables make for a beautiful presentation on the dinner table.
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Ginger Pie
Main Ingredients: Unbaked Pie Crust, Young Ginger, Rum, Sugar, Unsalted
If you thought ginger was only meant for savory dishes, think again. This recipe for ginger pie is a sweet and delicious way to incorporate ginger into your dessert. The crust is made with gingersnap cookies, giving it a warm and spicy flavor, while the filling is made with a creamy and tangy ginger custard. This pie is the perfect way to end a meal of beer can chicken, and it's sure to impress your guests with its unique and delicious flavors.
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Hot Plate Sizzling Tofu
Main Ingredients: Tofu, Cornstarch, Chicken Breast, Prawns, Shiitake
If you're looking for a vegetarian option to pair with beer can chicken, give this hot plate sizzling tofu a try. This dish is made with crispy tofu, stir-fried with vegetables, and served on a sizzling hot plate. The addition of ginger adds a zesty and slightly spicy element to the dish, making it a great pairing with the savory flavors of beer can chicken. Plus, the sizzling presentation of the dish is sure to impress your dinner guests.
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Beef Noodle Soup
Main Ingredients: Beef Bone, Flank Steak, Beef Tendon, Tripe, Beef
Nothing beats a warm and comforting bowl of beef noodle soup on a cold day. This recipe for beef noodle soup is made with tender beef, aromatic herbs and spices, and thick udon noodles. The addition of ginger adds a subtle spiciness to the dish, making it a perfect pairing with beer can chicken. Plus, this soup is a complete meal in itself, making it a great option for a quick and easy dinner.
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Chinese Steamed Fish With Ginger Paste
Main Ingredients: Fish, Spring Onions, Red Chili, Young Ginger, Shaoxing
Steamed fish is a staple dish in Chinese cuisine, and for good reason. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy and easy to make. The ginger paste used in this recipe adds a zesty and slightly spicy flavor to the fish, making it a perfect pairing with beer can chicken. Plus, the steaming method of cooking preserves the natural flavors of the fish, making for a light and refreshing dish that won't overpower the flavors of the chicken.
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Steamed Scallops with Fermented Black Beans
Main Ingredients: Scallops, Scallion, Young Ginger, Enoki Mushrooms, Soy
Scallops are a delicacy that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of fermented black beans and ginger. This recipe for steamed scallops with fermented black beans is a simple and elegant dish that can be served as an appetizer or a main course. The ginger adds a zesty and slightly spicy element to the dish, while the fermented black beans provide a depth of umami flavor. This dish is a great way to elevate your beer can chicken dinner and impress your guests.
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Penang Hokkian Mee/Prawn Mee, simply delicious !!
Main Ingredients: Spareribs, Seasoning Salt, Rock Sugar, Prawn, Pork
Hokkien mee, also known as prawn mee, is a popular Malaysian dish that is a must-try for any ginger lover. This dish is made with thick yellow noodles, prawns, and a flavorful broth made with ginger, garlic, and other spices. The ginger adds a zesty and slightly spicy kick to the dish, while the prawns provide a rich and savory flavor. This dish is a perfect pairing with beer can chicken, as the flavors complement each other perfectly.
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Asian Style Roast Chicken
Main Ingredients: Kaffir Lime Leaves, Lemongrass, Shallots, Garlic
Looking for a unique twist on traditional roast chicken? This Asian-style roast chicken is a flavorful and delicious option. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of ginger, soy sauce, and other spices, giving it a zesty and slightly spicy flavor. The addition of ginger not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, making for a juicy and succulent chicken. Plus, the presentation of this dish is sure to impress your dinner guests.
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How to prepare steamed fish with black bean sauce...
Main Ingredients: Fish, Scallions, Young Ginger, Cooking Oil, Red Chili
If you're looking for a simple and healthy dish to pair with beer can chicken, try this recipe for steamed fish with black bean sauce. The ginger and black bean sauce add a flavorful and slightly spicy element to the fish, making it a perfect pairing with the rich and savory flavors of beer can chicken. Plus, steaming the fish keeps it moist and tender, making it a light and refreshing addition to your meal.
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Thai Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry
Main Ingredients: Lemon Grass, Thai Chilis, Small Onion, Garlic Cloves
If you're in the mood for a vegetarian curry to pair with beer can chicken, give this Thai sweet potato and lentil curry a try. The addition of ginger adds a zesty and slightly spicy flavor to the dish, while the sweet potatoes and lentils provide a hearty and satisfying texture. This curry is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great option for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
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Yellow Glutinous Rice Wine Chicken 黄酒鸡
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Black Fungus, Young Ginger, Rice Wine, Water
This traditional Chinese dish is a must-try for any ginger lover. The chicken is marinated in yellow wine, ginger, and other spices, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. The long cooking time allows the chicken to absorb all of the flavors, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken. Plus, the bright yellow color of the dish is sure to make a statement on your dinner table.
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Miang Kham (Thai One Bite Wrap)
Main Ingredients: Pepper Leaf, Lemongrass, Roasted Peanuts, Coconut
Miang kham is a popular Thai snack that is perfect for pairing with beer can chicken. These one-bite wraps are made with a variety of ingredients, including ginger, lime, peanuts, and dried shrimp, wrapped in a betel leaf. The combination of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty flavors makes for an explosion of taste in every bite. Plus, the ginger adds a refreshing and zesty element to the dish, making it a perfect pairing with the rich and savory flavors of beer can chicken.
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Scratch-Made Moscow Mules
Main Ingredients: Young Ginger, Water, Granulated Sugar, Lime Juice
No meal is complete without a refreshing drink, and this scratch-made Moscow mule is the perfect addition to your beer can chicken dinner. Made with ginger beer, vodka, and lime juice, this cocktail is both zesty and refreshing. The addition of ginger gives it a spicy kick, making it a great pairing with the savory flavors of the chicken. Plus, the cool and crisp flavors of the drink are a perfect contrast to the warm and rich flavors of the meal.
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Honey & Ginger Glazed Chicken 蜜制姜汁鸡
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thigh, Young Ginger, Rice Vinegar, Mirin, Salt
This Chinese-inspired dish is a delicious and unique way to enjoy beer can chicken. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and ginger, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor. The addition of ginger not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, making for a juicy and succulent chicken. Plus, the glaze adds a beautiful shine to the chicken, making it both delicious and visually appealing.
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Ginger Salad
Main Ingredients: Young Ginger, Salt, Limes, Channa Dal, Peanut Oil
If you're looking for a light and refreshing side dish to pair with beer can chicken, give this ginger salad a try. Made with fresh ginger, carrots, and cabbage, this salad is crunchy, tangy, and slightly spicy. The ginger adds a zesty kick to the dish, while the vegetables provide a refreshing and healthy element. It's the perfect side dish to balance out the rich and savory flavors of beer can chicken.
Health Benefits of Japanese Young Ginger
Rich in Antioxidants
One of the top reasons why young ginger is considered a superfood in Japan is because of its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants help protect our bodies against free radicals, which can cause cell damage and contribute to chronic diseases. Young ginger contains compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have powerful antioxidant properties and can help boost our immune system.
May Aid in Digestion
In traditional Japanese medicine, ginger has been used for centuries to aid in digestion and alleviate stomach discomfort. Young ginger, in particular, is known to have a soothing effect on the digestive system, making it a popular remedy for nausea, bloating, and stomach upset. It also contains enzymes that can help break down proteins and improve overall digestion.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Another benefit of gingerols and shogaols is their anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds have been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body, which can be beneficial for those with inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and irritable bowel syndrome. Incorporating young ginger into your diet may help alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Ways to Use Japanese Young Ginger
As a Flavoring Agent
One of the simplest ways to use young ginger is as a flavoring agent in dishes. Its mild and slightly sweet taste makes it a great addition to soups, stir-fries, and marinades. You can also grate or finely chop it and use it in dressings and sauces for a subtle kick of flavor.
Pickled Young Ginger
Another popular way to enjoy young ginger in Japan is by pickling it. Pickled young ginger, also known as gari, is commonly served with sushi and sashimi to cleanse the palate between bites. It has a tangy and slightly spicy taste, making it a perfect accompaniment to the rich flavors of sushi.
Young Ginger Tea
For a soothing and comforting drink, you can brew young ginger tea by steeping thinly sliced young ginger in hot water. This tea is often consumed for its health benefits, including relief from cold and flu symptoms and menstrual cramps.
Final Thoughts
Young ginger is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that adds a unique flavor and potential health benefits to dishes. Whether you use it as a seasoning, pickle it, or brew it into a tea, incorporating young ginger into your diet can be a delicious and beneficial choice. So next time you're at the grocery store, be sure to pick up some young ginger and experiment with new ways to enjoy it.
