If you're looking for a low-calorie and flavorful addition to your meals, pickled ginger might be just what you need. With just 20 calories per one ounce (28 g) serving, it's a smart choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Pickled ginger is made by preserving fresh ginger in sugar and vinegar. It's commonly served alongside sushi and other Japanese dishes as a palette cleanser, but it can also add a tangy kick to salads, sandwiches, and stir-fries.

In this article, we'll explore the health benefits of pickled ginger, ways to use it in your cooking, and even provide a recipe for making it at home.

What is Pickled Ginger?

Pickled ginger is a traditional Japanese condiment made from thinly sliced fresh ginger that has been pickled in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt. Also known as Gari, it has a tangy, slightly sweet flavor and is typically served alongside sushi or sashimi to help cleanse the palate between bites. Its distinctive pink color comes from the addition of beet juice or food coloring, and it's usually sliced paper-thin to make it easy to eat. Aside from its culinary uses, pickled ginger may also provide a range of health benefits thanks to its high concentration of active compounds, including gingerol, shogaols, and zingerone.

How Many Calories are in Pickled Ginger?

One ounce (28 g) of pickled ginger contains approximately 20 calories, 0.1 g of fat, 4.5 g of carbohydrates, and 0.3 g of protein. It's a low-calorie condiment that can add a lot of flavor to dishes without adding too many extra calories. Just be mindful of the sodium content if you're watching your salt intake.

Health Benefits of Pickled Ginger

Pickled ginger may offer a range of health benefits, thanks to the active compounds found in ginger. Gingerol, one of the main active compounds in ginger, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce pain and inflammation in the body. It may also help ease nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness, morning sickness during pregnancy, and chemotherapy treatment. Additionally, research suggests that ginger may help regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, and improve brain function, among other potential benefits. While more research is needed to confirm these findings, adding pickled ginger to your diet may be a tasty way to incorporate more of this healthy spice into your meals.

Ways to Use Pickled Ginger

Pickled ginger is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes, from Asian-inspired salads and stir-fries to sandwiches and wraps. Try adding a few slices of pickled ginger to your next tuna or chicken salad for an extra pop of flavor, or sprinkle it over your favorite sushi roll for added zing. You can also chop it up and add it to marinades or glazes for meats and seafood, or mix it into a dipping sauce for dumplings or spring rolls.

Pickled Ginger vs Fresh Ginger

While both pickled ginger and fresh ginger come from the same plant, they have some key differences in flavor and texture. Fresh ginger has a strong, pungent flavor and a fibrous texture that makes it a popular ingredient in many Asian and Indian dishes. It's often minced, grated, or sliced thinly and added to stir-fries, curries, and soups. Pickled ginger, on the other hand, is milder in flavor and has a softer texture. It's often served alongside sushi as a palate cleanser or used as a condiment in various dishes.

How to Make Pickled Ginger at Home

Making your own pickled ginger is easy and allows you to customize the flavor to your liking. Here's a simple recipe to try at home: Ingredients: - 1 lb fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced - 1/4 cup rice vinegar - 2 tbsp sugar - 1 tsp salt - 1/4 cup water Instructions: 1. In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, and water. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved. 2. Place the ginger slices in a heatproof bowl and pour the hot liquid over them. 3. Let the ginger cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy!

Storing Pickled Ginger

Once you've made or purchased pickled ginger, it's important to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh and flavorful. Most store-bought pickled ginger comes in a vacuum-sealed pack or jar and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months. Homemade pickled ginger should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within a week or so.

Pickled Ginger in Japanese Cuisine

Pickled ginger, or Gari, is a staple in Japanese cuisine and is often served alongside sushi, sashimi, and other dishes as a palate cleanser. Traditionally, it's made by pickling young ginger in a vinegar and sugar solution, which gives it a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that helps counteract the richness of fish and other fatty foods. In addition to its culinary uses, pickled ginger is also said to have medicinal properties and is often used to ease digestive issues and stimulate the appetite.

Pickled Ginger for Digestive Health

Ginger has long been used in traditional medicine as a natural remedy for digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach. Pickled ginger may offer similar benefits, thanks to its high concentration of bioactive compounds like gingerol and shogaols. It's thought to help stimulate the digestive system and ease symptoms of indigestion and bloating. If you're looking for a natural and tasty way to support digestive health, pickled ginger may be worth incorporating into your diet. Just be sure to talk to your doctor before trying any new remedies, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking any medications.

Potential Side Effects of Pickled Ginger

In general, pickled ginger is considered safe for most people to consume in moderation. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. If you're sensitive to ginger or have a history of allergies, you may experience an allergic reaction to pickled ginger. Additionally, consuming large amounts of ginger may cause digestive issues like heartburn, diarrhea, and stomach upset. If you experience any unusual symptoms after eating pickled ginger or have concerns about its safety, it's important to talk to your doctor.