🍬 Introducing a delightful treat straight from the heart of homemade goodness – Crystallized Ginger! 🍬 This recipe, discovered during an online adventure by the gracious Jeannine, promises an explosion of sweet and spicy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds with every bite. Bursting with Asian-inspired flair, this confectionary masterpiece is not only easy to whip up but also boasts an array of desirable qualities including being very low in carbs, low in protein, and low in cholesterol. Perfect for those seeking a delectable dessert option that’s both satisfying and guilt-free! So let’s dive into this culinary journey and uncover the secrets to creating your very own batch of Crystallized Ginger magic.
Crystallized Ginger Recipe
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ginger root
- 3 cups white sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 3 cups water
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ginger:
- Start by peeling the ginger root and slicing it into rounds approximately 1/8 inch thick.
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Boil the Ginger:
- In a large to huge pot (the bigger, the better!), combine 3 cups of water and 3 cups of white sugar.
- Bring the water and sugar mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved.
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Infuse with Flavor:
- Once the sugar has dissolved, add the sliced ginger to the pot.
- Allow the ginger to boil gently for about 45 minutes, stirring almost constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
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Achieve Perfection:
- Aim for the ginger to become tender and develop a translucent appearance.
- Maintain a gentle boil throughout the cooking process, ensuring it doesn’t reach a full rolling boil.
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Drain and Dry:
- Carefully drain the ginger, reserving the flavorful liquid for later use.
- Transfer the boiled ginger slices onto a rack to dry for approximately 30 minutes. The ginger may be a tad sticky at this point.
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Coat with Sugar:
- Once the ginger has dried slightly, coat each slice generously with sugar.
- For a finer coating, consider pulsing some sugar in a spice grinder to achieve a half powder, half granulated texture before coating the ginger.
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Set to Dry:
- Lay out the sugar-coated ginger slices on wax paper and allow them to dry completely. This process may take a few hours, so exercise patience and resist the temptation to sample too soon!
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Store and Enjoy:
- Once fully dried, transfer the crystallized ginger to an airtight container for storage.
- Revel in the delightful flavors and textures of your homemade creation, savoring each sweet and spicy bite whenever the mood strikes!
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Bonus Syrup:
- Don’t discard the remaining syrup from the pot!
- Boil it down to a thick, golden syrup reminiscent of maple or honey. This delectable syrup can be drizzled over pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream for an extra burst of flavor.
Indulge in the aromatic allure and irresistible sweetness of homemade Crystallized Ginger, a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether enjoyed as a standalone treat or used to elevate your favorite desserts, this recipe is a true testament to the joy of homemade confections. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that’s as rewarding as it is delicious! 🌟
