12 Delicious Asian Recipes to Use Up Ginger
Ginger, with its signature spicy warmth and citrusy aroma, has long been a staple in kitchens around the world. Not only does it enhance the flavor of countless dishes, but it also brings anti-inflammatory benefits and supports digestion. Below is a round-up of flavorful Asian recipes that use a generous amount of ginger and bring out its best characteristics. Some of them are particularly great for fall and winter.
1. Steamed Fish with Ginger and Soy Sauce
This light and savory dish lets the delicate flavor of the fish shine while complementing it with the sharp, aromatic essence of ginger. Serve it with rice for an easy restaurant quality meal at home.
2. Vietnamese Ginger Braised Duck (Vแปt Kho Gแปซng)
The generous use of ginger in this recipe not only imparts a warm aroma but also helps eliminate any strong gamey odor. This easy and hearty dish is great for those who enjoy the robust taste of duck and want to explore authentic Vietnamese flavors beyond the typical dishes.
3. Asian Ginger Pork Skewers
Whether grilled or air-fried, these skewers turn out juicy and aromatic. The marinade, featuring soy sauce and ginger, infuses the pork with a deep savory taste. They are great for daily meals as well as gatherings.
4. Stir-fried Crab with Ginger and Scallion
For seafood lovers, this dish is a showstopper. The sweet, delicate flavor of fresh crab is enhanced by the zesty and flavorful notes of ginger and scallions. While it requires a bit more preparation, the payoff is a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your guests or make any dinner feel special.
5. Scallion Ginger Pork Stir-fry
This unassuming yet flavorful dish is a staple in many Vietnamese households due to its quick and easy preparation. It features tender slices of pork infused with the warm fragrance of scallions and ginger. Serve it with steamed rice or congee for a comforting meal that’s nourishing and gentle on the stomach.
6. Ginger Salmon in Foil Packets
This fuss-free recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The foil packets trap all the moisture, allowing the ginger and other seasonings to infuse the salmon while it bakes or steams. This dish pairs well with steamed rice to soak up the savory juices.
7. Steamed Squid with Ginger and Scallion
Steaming the squid allows it to remain tender, while the ginger and scallions infuse the dish with a fragrant aroma. This recipe is light, healthy, and quick to prepare. Be careful not to overcook the squid, otherwise the texture will be come rubbery and chewy.
8. Iceberg Lettuce Salad with Ginger Dressing
The addition of gingerโs spiciness to a tangy vinaigrette creates a flavorful contrast to the cool iceberg lettuce. This quick and easy salad comes together with minimal effort and time. You can customize it by adding ingredients like cucumber or tomatoes.
9. Vietnamese Beef Pho Noodle Soup (Phแป Bรฒ)
Beef pho noodle soup is a beloved Vietnamese classic. The broth is made by simmering beef bones, spices, and charred ginger for hours to achieve a deep, savory flavor with subtle warmth from the ginger. My authentic recipe will show you how easy it is to cook this dish at home.
10. Vietnamese Chicken Pho Noodle Soup (Phแป Gร )
For those who prefer lighter flavors, chicken pho is a fragrant, soothing alternative to beef pho. The ginger works its magic to add warmth and depth to the delicate chicken flavor as well as eliminate any poultry odor. An excellent dish for colder days or when you crave something light yet satisfying.
11. Ginger Syrup for Drinks
This ginger syrup, with its sweet and spicy notes, can enhance your drinks by adding a touch of warmth and fragrance. Made with just three ingredients – fresh ginger, sugar, and water – this syrup is easy to prepare and store in the refrigerator for future use.
12. Lemongrass Ginger Tea
This Vietnamese herbal tea is a simple yet aromatic drink that brings together the soothing quality of ginger and the citrusy freshness of lemongrass. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it suitable for any season.