Candied ginger

Crystallized ginger is a sweet and aromatic ingredient consisting of pieces of fresh ginger root cooked in syrup and then dried to create a snack or additive with a tender texture and a balanced flavor between spicy and sweet. Its characteristic flavor adds an exotic and slightly spicy touch to a wide variety of recipes, from desserts and pastries to infusions and savory dishes.

Ginger is native to Southeast Asia and has been used for centuries both in cooking and in traditional medicine for its multiple health benefits. The technique of crystallizing ginger allows it to be preserved for longer and facilitates its use in the kitchen.

Regarding its properties, crystallized ginger retains many of the benefits of fresh ginger, such as its anti-inflammatory, digestive, and antioxidant action, although it contains a high sugar content due to the crystallization process. Therefore, its consumption is recommended in moderation as a sweet complement to add flavor and aroma.

In different Spanish-speaking countries, crystallized ginger may also be known as candied ginger, caramelized ginger, or simply sweet ginger. These terms reflect the same preparation that enhances the natural flavor of ginger with a coating of sugar.