Candied ginger is sweet, spicy ginger that is simmered with sugar and dried until coated in sugar crystals. It can be enjoyed as a snack, used in baked goods, or added to chocolate. Many people make homemade candied ginger using fresh ginger root, cane sugar, and leftover ginger syrup. The final product is sometimes known as crystallized ginger or ginger candy.

Candied Ginger

Candied ginger is made by simmering sliced ginger in sugar syrup. Ginger slices soften and absorb syrup, creating a sweet, spicy candy. Once coated with sugar, slices can be placed on a cooling rack or drying rack. Candied ginger can be stored in an airtight container and kept in a dark place.

Homemade Candied Ginger

Homemade candied ginger allows flexibility in ginger thickness, sweetness, and spice. Mature ginger may provide stronger flavor. A food dehydrator or drying rack can be used to help pieces dry overnight. Natural ginger chews can be made in small batches.

Basic Homemade Candied Ginger

• Peel fresh ginger or scrub well.
• Slice ginger into thin slices.
• Bring water, sliced ginger, and cane sugar to a boil.
• Simmer, stirring occasionally, until ginger absorbs syrup.
• Transfer slices to a cooling rack.
• Sprinkle with cane sugar or pure cane sugar.
• Allow to dry.

Ginger Candy

Ginger candy may be soft or firm. Ginger chews often include ginger, sugar, and syrup. Hard ginger candy can be made by cooking the syrup to a higher temperature. Individually wrapped candies are available at many Asian markets and grocery stores. Ginger candies can be used as a small treat with vibrant flavor.

Ginger Chews

Ginger chews are sweet and spicy. Ginger chews and ginger candy can be used in kitchens, added to baked goods, or enjoyed alone. Some people keep individually wrapped ginger chews on hand. Ginger chews may be used by those who prefer portable ginger candy.

Crystallized Ginger

Crystallized ginger is another name for candied ginger. It is made from real ginger root that is simmered and dried. Slices of crystallized ginger are coated in sugar and stored in airtight containers. Crystallized ginger can be added to fruit salad or chocolate.

Hard Ginger Candy

Hard ginger candy can be made by simmering ginger with syrup until the cooking liquid reaches a higher temperature. Once cooled, the final product can become firm. Hard ginger candy may be placed in individually wrapped candies for storage.

Morning Sickness

Candied ginger and ginger chews are sometimes used by people looking for options for occasional morning sickness or motion sickness. These uses are discussed in many households. Individual experiences vary.

Digestion Aid

Some people enjoy candied ginger after meals. Ginger has a long history in many kitchens, where it is used in drinks, candy, and baked goods.

How to Use Candied Ginger

• Enjoy as a snack
• Add to baked goods
• Use as ginger candy at home
• Stir into ginger water
• Dip in chocolate

Leftover ginger syrup can be used in tea or simple drinks.

Storage

Store candied ginger in an airtight container. Candied ginger may keep well in a dark place. Crystallized ginger can also be kept in glass jars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is candied ginger gluten free? Candied ginger is often gluten free, though ingredients vary.

How long does candied ginger keep? When stored in an airtight container in a dark place, it may keep for weeks.

Can I save leftover ginger syrup? Yes. Leftover ginger syrup can be used for ginger simple syrup or added to iced tea.

References

1. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center — Ginger Monograph.
2. Thomson M et al. “Zingiber officinale review.” Phytotherapy Research.
3. Black C et al. “Ginger and culinary use.” Journal of Food Science.
4. Marx W et al. “Ginger and plant compounds.” Food & Function.