Stem ginger in syrup is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. The spicy, citrusy flavor of the ginger pairs well with other ingredients and adds an extra punch of flavor. Here are some of the top uses for stem ginger in syrup:
Baking
One of the most popular uses for stem ginger in syrup is in baked goods like cookies, cakes, and breads. The ginger adds warmth and a subtle kick, complementing sweet flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Try adding some finely chopped stem ginger to:
- Gingerbread cookies
- Spice cakes
- Carrot cake or banana bread
- Scones or muffins
The syrup helps keep the baked goods moist while allowing the flavor of the ginger to shine through.
Sauces
Drizzling some of the ginger syrup into a sauce or dressing is an easy way to add extra flavor. The ginger can complement both sweet and savory sauces:
- Sweet chili sauce
- Hoisin sauce
- Peanut or almond sauce
- Ponzu sauce
- Fruit compotes
For salad dressings, try whisking a bit of the ginger syrup into a vinaigrette or creamy dressing. The ginger adds a nice kick.
Marinades and Rubs
The ginger syrup makes a quick and easy addition to marinades and rubs for meat, tofu, and vegetables. As a marinade, mix some ginger syrup with soy sauce, oil, vinegar, and desired seasonings. For a rub, combine chopped stem ginger with brown sugar, salt, pepper, and spices like cinnamon or cumin.
Some recipe ideas include:
- Ginger maple salmon
- Ginger soy flank steak
- Ginger sesame tofu
- Ginger lemon chicken
The ginger adds great flavor to meats and vegetables when grilling, broiling, roasting or stir-frying.
Cocktails
The ginger syrup can also be used to add a flavor boost to cocktails and mocktails. Add a splash to drinks like:
- Moscow mule
- Ginger beer
- Lemonade or iced tea
- Pimm’s cup
For a non-alcoholic option, mix the ginger syrup with sparkling water or club soda for a refreshing homemade ginger ale.
Desserts
Drizzle the ginger syrup over ice cream, fresh fruit, or puddings for an easy dessert topping. The ginger pairs especially well with flavors like:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Pineapple
- Mango
- Bananas
- Pears
- Rice pudding
You can also use chopped stem ginger as a garnish over desserts. The pieces add nice texture and bursts of flavor.
Tea and Coffee
Add a teaspoon or two of the ginger syrup to hot tea or coffee for an extra dose of flavor. It goes well with black tea, green tea, chai tea, and coffee. The ginger adds a little sweetness while complementing the other flavors.
You can also use the chopped ginger pieces to make homemade ginger tea. Simmer slices of the ginger in hot water for 15-20 minutes then add lemon and honey to taste.
Stir-Fries
The stem ginger is excellent for adding bold flavor to Asian-inspired stir-fries and noodle dishes. Try adding some chopped ginger to dishes like:
- Chicken & veggie stir-fry
- Beef & broccoli
- Garlic ginger shrimp
- Pad thai
You can also use a bit of the syrup in the sauce or drizzled over the finished dish. The ginger provides great flavor and complements typical stir-fry seasonings.
Smoothies
Blend some chopped stem ginger into your favorite smoothies for a spicy kick. It goes well with fruit flavors like:
- Pineapple
- Mango
- Banana
- Berries
You can also add a splash of the ginger syrup instead of using the chopped ginger. This adds milder flavor that blends well with creamy smoothies.
Pickling and Preserves
The ginger can be used to make homemade pickled vegetables, chutneys, relishes, and jams. Try adding some chopped ginger to quick refrigerator pickles or fermented options like kimchi and sauerkraut. The ginger pairs well with fruits and vegetables like:
- Cucumbers
- Onions
- Carrots
- Cabbage
- Pears
- Peaches
- Plums
The ginger adds a nice spicy element that complements the other pickle flavors.
Tips for Cooking with Stem Ginger
Here are some helpful tips for getting the most flavor and use out of your stem ginger in syrup:
- Look for plump, tender ginger stems in syrup. Avoid any with wrinkled skin or strange textures.
- Refrigerate after opening and use within 4-6 weeks.
- The ginger and syrup can be used together or separate depending on your preferences.
- Chop, mince, or puree the ginger to release the most flavor.
- Start with small amounts until you determine desired ginger taste.
- Add both the syrup and ginger to sauces and marinades for concentrated flavor.
- Use syrup alone to lightly sweeten and add mild ginger flavor to drinks, dressings, and desserts.
Popular Brands
Some of the top brands for high-quality stem ginger in syrup include:
- The Ginger People
- Reese
- Buderim
- Blue Dragon
- Stonewall Kitchen
| Brand | Description |
|---|---|
| The Ginger People | Organic stem ginger packed in tangy lemon syrup. Mildly sweet with robust ginger flavor. |
| Reese | Tender Australian ginger in lightly sweetened syrup. Wide jars are easy to scoop from. |
| Buderim | Traditional ginger from Australia’s Sunshine Coast. Known for quality, flavor, and spice. |
| Blue Dragon | Chunky pieces of ginger in syrup made from ginger juice concentrate. Affordable option. |
| Stonewall Kitchen | Ginger steamed and packed in Vermont. Syrup has honey and lime notes. |
Storage and Substitutes
Properly stored, stem ginger in syrup will keep for 4-6 weeks in the refrigerator. Look for any signs of mold, darkening, or drying and discard if found. The syrup may thicken over time. You can thin it with a bit of water or lemon juice if needed.
If you don’t have stem ginger, here are some possible substitutes:
- Regular fresh ginger – Grated or minced
- Ground ginger
- Crystallized or candied ginger
- Ginger juice or paste
- Omit entirely
Adjust the amounts when substituting fresh ginger, as it is much stronger in flavor. And candied ginger will add more sweetness.
Conclusion
Stem ginger in syrup is one of those versatile pantry ingredients that can elevate both sweet and savory recipes. Its uses range from Asian marinades and stir-fries to cocktail mixers, dessert toppings, and spicy baked goods. The ginger provides a robust, citrusy punch while the syrup adds sweetness and moisture. Keep a jar on hand to add a little flavor boost to meals and drinks.
