Red Pickled Ginger: A Japanese Must-Have

Delicious, healthy and a convenient pick-me-up on the go – red pickled ginger is a popular Japanese treat that you can buy almost anywhere in Japan. It is not just an easy snack to enjoy after lunch or dinner, but also has plenty of health benefits! If you’re keen to make some red pickled ginger, then this article will be your guide.

What is Red Pickled Ginger?

It is made by pickling young ginger root in vinegar and thus it gets this nice reddish color. The result is a bright pink condiment that is both sweet and slightly spicy. Red pickled ginger is often served as a side dish with sushi or sashimi, but it can also be used to add flavor to other dishes such as noodles or rice.

Why Red Pickled Ginger?

Ginger has a long history in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, where it is used to help with everything from nausea to inflammation. But in addition to its many health benefits, ginger is also a key ingredient in Japanese cuisine.

One of the most popular ways to enjoy ginger is in the form of Beni shoga, or gari. This pinkish-hued root vegetable is often served alongside sushi or sashimi as a palate cleanser, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack.

So why is it red you might think? The answer lies in the pickling process. When ginger is peeled and then soaked in vinegar and sugar, the resulting mixture takes on a beautiful pink hue. This color not only looks pretty, but it also indicates that the ginger has been properly pickled and is ready to eat.

If you’re looking for a unique way to spruce up your next meal, try adding some red pickled ginger to your plate. You may just find that this little root vegetable quickly becomes one of your new favorite ingredients!

How to Prepare and Store Red Pickled Ginger

This is made by pickling thin slices of ginger in a vinegar-based solution and is typically bright pink in color. It is often served with sushi or sashimi, but can also be used as a topping for other dishes such as rice or noodles.

When purchasing red pickled ginger, look for slices that are pink in color and free of blemishes. If you are making your own, slice the ginger thinly so that it will pickle evenly.

To prepare red pickled ginger, simply soak the slices in a vinegar-based solution for at least 24 hours. The longer you soak the ginger, the more flavor it will absorb. Once it has reached the desired level of flavor, drain the ginger and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

It will keep in the refrigerator for up to one month. When ready to use, simply remove the desired amount from the container and slice as needed.

Recipes that Include red pickled ginger

If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, then you know that pickled ginger is a must-have ingredient. You can serve it as a side dish with sushi or sashimi, but you can also use it in a variety of recipes. Here are some of our favorite dishes that include red pickled ginger:

Ginger Fried Rice: This dish is perfect for using up leftover rice. Simply sauté some veggies and ginger in sesame oil, then add your cooked rice and an egg. Season to taste with soy sauce and serve.

Pickled Ginger Soup: This soup is both soothing and flavorful. Made with chicken broth, miso paste, and of course, red pickled ginger, it’s the perfect choice when you’re feeling under the weather.

Chicken and Red Pickled Ginger Stir-Fry: The addition of pickled ginger gives this dish a tangy flavor that really makes it stand out. It’s best to marinate the chicken first, so plan ahead.

Salmon with ginger: This is a variation on baked salmon, but it has a twist! The recipe calls for adding some red pickled ginger to the marinade to add zest. Try it both ways to see which you like better.

Roasted Ginger-Glazed Chicken: There are so many possibilities when it comes to cooking with red pickled ginger. This recipe is different because the ginger is roasted in the oven. It imparts a deep, rich flavor to the chicken.

Asian Ginger Salad: This beautiful salad is full of Asian flavors, thanks to the red pickled ginger. The dressing is simple and easy with just a few ingredients. This also adds an oomph to the presentation!

Alternatives to the Recipe

If you don’t have time to make your own pickled ginger, there are a few good store-bought brands out there. One of our favorites is the Hime brand, which you can find at most Japanese markets.

Another good option is to buy pickled ginger that’s already been flavored with vinegar and sugar. This type of ginger is called “shoga yaki” in Japanese, and it’s a great way to add a little sweetness and acidity to your dish.

If you’re looking for an even easier option, you can buy pickled ginger that’s been pre-sliced. This is a great time-saver, and it’s also perfect for those who don’t want to deal with the mess of slicing their own ginger.

Looking for an alternative to the classic red pickled ginger recipe? Why not try one of these delicious options!

For a more savory flavor, try pickling your ginger in soy sauce. Simply soak your ginger slices in soy sauce for a few hours (or overnight) before serving.

If you prefer a sweeter taste, try pickling your ginger in honey. Simply combine equal parts honey and water in a saucepan and heat until just boiling. Add your ginger slices and let them soak for a few hours (or overnight) before serving.

For a spicier option, try pickling your ginger in vinegar. Simply combine equal parts vinegar and water in a saucepan and heat until just boiling. Add your ginger slices and let them soak for a few hours (or overnight) before serving.

You can also try out pickled jicama, have a look at this recipe for pickled cherry peppers or try pickled fennel for a totally different kitchen experience

Conclusion

Red pickled ginger, or beni shoga, is an important part of Japanese cuisine. You can serve it with sushi and sashimi, but you can also use it in other dishes like noodles and rice bowls. If you are looking to add a little bit of flavor to your food, this is a great option.

FAQ Red Pickled Ginger

1. Why is red pickled ginger so popular in Japan?

There are a few reasons why this condiment is so popular in Japan. First, it is a traditional Japanese food that has been around for centuries. Second, it is said to have many health benefits, such as aiding digestion and helping to prevent nausea. Third, it is a convenient and tasty way to add flavor to various dishes.

2. How do you eat red pickled ginger?

It can be eaten in many different ways.You often serve it as an accompaniment to sushi or sashimi, but you can also enjoy it on its own as a snack or side dish. It can also be used as a condiment for other dishes, such as noodles or rice.

3. What are the health benefits?

There are many purported health benefits of red pickled ginger. For example, it is thought to help with digestion, ease nausea caused by morning sickness or motion sickness, and work as a natural remedy for indigestion and gastritis. Some people also believe that it helps decrease the risk of cancer and prevent age-related illnesses.

4. How do you make red pickled ginger?

Making your own red pickled ginger is quite easy and can be done at home using common household ingredients. Here is how you can create this tasty treat:

1) Prepare thickened rice vinegar – Mix together 5 cups of filtered water with 1 cup of rice vinegar in a pot or saucepan (you can use brown rice vinegar if you prefer).
2) Add the ginger – Peel and chop 1 inch of fresh ginger root into thin slices. Mix the ginger slices into the rice vinegar mixture.
3) Cook the ingredients – Bring the vinegar and water to a rolling boil, then turn down to medium heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
4) Cool completely – Let your pickled ginger cool completely before placing it in jars or serving it as an appetizer or snack. The pickling process will be complete when the liquid has turned clear and you can no longer taste any raw vinegar flavor in your red pickled ginger.*Note: This is typically eaten with sushi and sashimi, but many people eat it on its own or mix it with other foods such as tofu, rice or salads. Experiment with different ways of serving pickled ginger and use your imagination to come up with new ideas!