Ginger is one of the most popular spices in the world—loved for its spicy, zesty kick and health benefits. But did you know there are different types of ginger used in cooking and wellness? From fresh root to powdered spice, each type brings its own unique flavor and purpose. Let’s break down the different forms of ginger, how to use them, and the best tools for preparing and storing them at home.
Main Types of Ginger
1. Fresh Ginger Root
The most common type, found in grocery stores. Fresh ginger has a pungent, spicy flavor and is used in stir-fries, soups, teas, and marinades. Best peeled and grated before use.
2. Young (Green) Ginger
Harvested earlier than mature ginger, this type has thinner skin, a milder taste, and more moisture. Often used for pickling or eaten raw in salads.
3. Dried Ginger
Sliced and dried pieces of ginger root with a more concentrated, peppery flavor. Common in herbal teas and traditional medicine.
4. Ground (Powdered) Ginger
Made from dried ginger ground into powder. Widely used in baking (gingerbread, cookies), spice blends, and curry powders.
5. Pickled Ginger (Gari)
Thin slices of young ginger pickled in vinegar and sugar, most often served with sushi. It has a sweet and tangy taste.
6. Candied (Crystallized) Ginger
Ginger pieces boiled in sugar syrup and coated with sugar crystals. Used as a sweet snack, in desserts, or for settling upset stomachs.
7. Blue Hawaiian Ginger
A rare variety of fresh ginger with a bluish hue inside. It has a strong flavor and is often prized in gourmet cooking.
Ginger Flavor & Nutrition Differences
- Fresh Ginger: Spicy, aromatic, best for cooking.
- Powdered Ginger: More earthy and warm, best for baking.
- Dried Ginger: Strong, concentrated, excellent in teas.
- Pickled Ginger: Sweet, tangy, palate cleanser for sushi.
- Candied Ginger: Sweet and spicy, great for snacks and desserts.
Quick Picks: Best Tools for Ginger Prep & Storage
- Best Overall: Microplane Premium Zester & Grater – Perfect for fresh ginger.
- Best Budget: Norpro Ceramic Ginger Grater – Affordable, easy to use for small amounts.
- Best Premium: Breville Juice Fountain Elite Juicer – Extracts ginger juice for teas and wellness shots.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Ginger Tools
- Graters & Zesters: Essential for fresh ginger prep in cooking.
- Spice Grinders: Best for turning dried ginger into powder.
- Food Storage Jars: Airtight glass jars keep powdered or dried ginger fresh.
- Juicers: A must-have for extracting ginger shots or tea bases.
- Cutting Boards & Knives: Non-slip boards and sharp knives make peeling and slicing ginger easier.
Detailed Reviews: Best Ginger Prep & Storage Tools
Microplane Premium Zester & Grater
Who it’s for: Anyone who frequently uses fresh ginger in recipes.
- Key Benefits: Razor-sharp stainless steel blades, ergonomic handle.
- Pros: Easy to use, dishwasher safe, also works for citrus and spices.
- Cons: Only useful for smaller amounts at a time.
Final Verdict: The best all-around ginger prep tool. Check price.
Norpro Ceramic Ginger Grater
Who it’s for: Budget-conscious cooks who want a simple ginger tool.
- Key Benefits: Ceramic teeth designed for ginger and garlic.
- Pros: Affordable, lightweight, easy to clean.
- Cons: Smaller capacity, not suitable for bulk prep.
Final Verdict: Best budget option for occasional ginger use. Order now.
Breville Juice Fountain Elite Juicer
Who it’s for: Wellness enthusiasts making ginger shots, teas, and juices.
- Key Benefits: Commercial-grade motor, stainless steel design, extra-wide chute.
- Pros: High juice yield, powerful, durable.
- Cons: Expensive, takes counter space.
Final Verdict: A premium juicer for serious ginger fans. See details.
Cuisinart Spice & Nut Grinder
Who it’s for: Home cooks who want fresh powdered ginger from dried slices.
- Key Benefits: Stainless steel blades, push-top control, dishwasher-safe bowl.
- Pros: Easy to use, versatile for spices and coffee.
- Cons: Small capacity.
Final Verdict: Perfect for DIY ginger powder. Shop here.
Le Parfait French Glass Storage Jars
Who it’s for: Anyone storing dried or powdered ginger long-term.
- Key Benefits: Airtight glass jars, metal clamp lids, stylish design.
- Pros: Preserves freshness, reusable, eco-friendly.
- Cons: Glass is breakable.
Final Verdict: The best storage jars for ginger. View price.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Material | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microplane Zester | Fresh ginger prep | Stainless steel | View Price |
| Norpro Grater | Budget ginger prep | Ceramic | View Price |
| Breville Juicer | Ginger juice & shots | Stainless steel | View Price |
| Cuisinart Grinder | Powdered ginger | Stainless steel | View Price |
| Le Parfait Jars | Storing ginger | Glass + metal | View Price |
FAQ About Ginger
What type of ginger is best for cooking?
Fresh ginger root is the most versatile and flavorful option for everyday cooking.
Is powdered ginger the same as fresh ginger?
No. Powdered ginger has a different flavor profile—earthier and less bright than fresh ginger.
Can I substitute powdered ginger for fresh ginger?
Yes, but use less. 1 teaspoon of powdered ginger = about 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger.
How do I store fresh ginger?
Refrigerate in a paper towel inside a plastic bag, or freeze for long-term storage.
Conclusion
There are many types of ginger—fresh, young, dried, powdered, pickled, candied, and rare varieties like blue Hawaiian ginger. Each has unique uses, from spicy stir-fries to sweet desserts to soothing teas.
For the best kitchen experience, equip yourself with tools like the Microplane Zester for fresh prep, or go premium with the Breville Juicer for fresh ginger shots at home.
Shop the best ginger prep tools today and enjoy every type of ginger with ease.