Uses For Crystalized Ginger

Crystallized ginger, also known as candied ginger, is made by soaking fresh slices of ginger root in a sugar syrup, which is then coated in a crystallized sugar -- a result of melting sugar with water and allowing to dry, which forms crystals. Due to the sweetness of the sugar and the spice of the ginger, crystallized ginger is a versatile and flavorful ingredient for cooking. This herb also has a longstanding medicinal use in both Chinese and Indian folk medicine. Due to the high sugar content of this food, you should always moderate your consumption.

Step 1

Cut candied ginger into small cubes and add to baked goods, such as cookie dough and muffin mixes. You can reduce the amount of sugar called for in the recipe by the amount of candied ginger you add. The ginger will enhance the flavor of these foods by giving them an underlying spiciness. Ginger may even help to reduce your blood pressure, according to a January 2005 study published in the "Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology."

Step 2

Puree crystallized ginger in a food processor with a stock of your choice to form a glaze. You can reduce the stock by simmering it for about an hour or until the volume is approximately 85 percent less than the initial amount to form a glaze. Pour the glaze over roasted poultry or braised root vegetables.

Step 3

Eat whole candied ginger as a dessert. Instead of cheesecake or other high-fat desserts, eat a couple of pieces of crystallized ginger, which might improve your health. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, regularly eating ginger may reduce inflammation associated with arthritis and ulcerative colitis, although further research is necessary. Of course, you will need to moderate your intake due to the sugar.

Step 4

Chew on crystallized ginger slices if you feel nauseous due to motion or morning sickness. An April 2001 study published in "Obstetrics and Gynecology" found that ginger effectively alleviated the severity of nausea and vomiting in pregnant women. Always consult your physician before use.

Tips and Warnings

If you'd like to control the amount of sugar in crystallized sugar, you can make your own. Put slices of ginger and water in a saucepan over low heat and bring to a simmer. Once the pieces are tender, remove heat and measure the amount in a measuring cup. Add a similar amount of sugar or less sugar, depending on your preference. Place the sugar, ginger and a couple a tablespoons of water back into the saucepan until the water evaporates. You can add more sugar to crystallize the ginger or leave as is. You may chose to use an artificial sweetener, but it may affect the taste.
Because crystallized ginger contains sugar, diabetics and other sugar-sensitive people should consult a physician before use.