How to Preserve Ginger Paste

Co-authored by Hunter Rising

Last Updated: May 25, 2020 References

Fresh ginger has a shelf life of 1 week, so you may consider pureeing it into a paste.^{[1]
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Research source} Not only does this make it easier to add to dishes later on, it also allows you to preserve it for much longer. By storing the paste in the fridge or freezer, you can add ginger to any dish or drink for months to come!

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Keeping Ginger Paste in the Fridge and Freezer

1
Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of vegetable oil. The addition of oil helps preserve the paste when it’s put in the fridge or freezer. The actual amount you add can be adjusted to your flavor preference.^{[2]
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- Any neutral-flavored oil, like canola or avocado oil, will work in place of vegetable oil.
- Using a small amount of vinegar will have a similar effect, but may affect the flavor.^{[3]
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2
Store the paste in a glass container for 1 month in the fridge. Use a dry glass jar with an air-tight seal.^{[4]
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Research source} Avoid adding any water to the paste so it stays fresher for longer.
- Label the container with the date so you know how long you’ve kept the ginger paste.
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3
Return the paste immediately to the fridge after you use it. Don’t let the ginger paste sit at room temperature as you cook. Once you’ve scooped out the desired amount, close the jar tight and put it back into the fridge. Keeping the paste cold is essential for keeping a fresh taste.^{[5]
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4
Freeze the paste in individual servings in an ice cube tray. Measure out 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of the paste into the wells of an ice cube tray and put it in the freezer. Once the cubes are frozen, transfer the cubes to an airtight freezer bag. Label it with the date you made the paste so you know how long you’ve kept it.
- Frozen ginger paste has a shelf life and can be used for up to 3 months.^{[6]
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- Ginger paste can be added to stovetop meals immediately, but thaw it in the fridge for 5 minutes if you plan on using it in baked goods.^{[7]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Adding Ginger Paste to Recipes

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Add ginger paste to your stir-fry vegetables. Most stir-fries already call for ginger in their recipes, so replacing it with ginger paste is an easy alternative. Mix 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of the paste into a wok filled with vegetables.
- For more ginger flavor, marinate the meat in the paste as well.
2
Spread the paste on steamed fish. The zest of ginger will help remove the fishy aftertaste. Spread the paste on top of steamed fish or use it as a dipping sauce.^{[8]
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- Alternatively, you can serve the paste alone as a palate cleanser after the meal is finished.
3
Spice up desserts with ginger paste. Add the paste into gingerbread mix in place of fresh ginger to spice up your cookies. Additionally, adding ginger paste to apple crisp or pie will make a spicy sweet dish you’re sure to enjoy. Mix in 3 tablespoons (44 ml) of the paste to the filling.
4
Steep the paste in water to make ginger tea. Heat up 1 cup (240 mL) of water to a boil. Put in 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of ginger paste and stir. Strain the liquid into a mug with honey and lemon juice.
- Make cold tea by adding 1 tablespoon (15 ml) to a 1 qt (.95 L) pitcher of water and refrigerate overnight.
5
Mix frozen ginger paste into a Moscow Mule. Instead of using ginger beer, use soda water. Drop in a cube of ginger paste and fresh lime for a strong and fragrant flavor.^{[9]
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- For a more intense ginger flavor, use ginger ale instead of soda water.