Ginger is a staple in Indian cuisine, adding flavour and aroma to various dishes. Beyond its culinary uses, ginger offers significant health benefits. Consuming ginger daily on an empty stomach can help regulate blood sugar levels and cholesterol, alleviate menstrual pain, and reduce swelling.
Dried ginger could be used as an effective home remedy for cough, common cold and sore throat. Ginger powder mixed with jaggery or honey can soothe the throat. The concoction made of local coffee and dried ginger, known as Chukku kaapi, in Kerala, is a comforting option when you're feeling unwell.
Usually, ginger is peeled before adding them in dishes or used as home remedies. However, ginger peels need not be thrown away as it could be washed and used for many purposes.
Instead of discarding ginger peels, consider these practical uses:
Flavoured tea
Dry the ginger peels in the sun and store them with your tea leaves for a unique, refreshing flavour. Alternatively, boil the peels in water to make ginger tea, adding honey, lemon juice, or cinnamon for extra flavour.
Cooking oil
Add a few pieces of ginger peel to your oil containers. The flavour will infuse into the oil, enhancing the taste of your dishes.
Soups
Incorporate ginger peels into soups while cooking to add flavour. Be sure to remove the peels before serving.
Ginger powder
Dry and powder ginger peels to use as a spice in cooking and baking.
Natural cleaning solution
Ginger peels can be mixed with vinegar to create a natural cleaning solution. Let the mixture sit for a few days to allow the ginger essence to infuse into the vinegar.
By using ginger peels creatively, you can enhance your culinary experiences and make the most of this versatile ingredient.
