Ginger

Instructions

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   Ginger is one of those indispensable herbs that we often take for granted.

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   I can remember having a jar of ground ginger in my cupboard for so long that it lost it's flavor!

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   That was before I realized how many things it could be used for.

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   In the 13th Century the English Royalty loved it so much it became worth it's weight in gold.

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   We are fortunate that we can buy ginger fresh or ground at our grocery stores without having to sell our earthly possessions.

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   You can grow fresh ginger by planting a ginger root in a 12 inch pot, just below the surface of the dirt.

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   Place the pot in a warm sunny spot, making sure it has good drainage.

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   Water sparingly until the small green shoots appear, and then water well.

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   Ginger loves being misted and fertilized regularly.

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    You will have to bring it inside during the winter, where it will become dormant and die down.

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    After the plant is well established, in about a year, dig up the roots from the newer sprouts to use; these will be more flavorful.

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    Roots will keep in the refrigerator for up to three weeks, and you can freeze them if they are wrapped well in plastic.

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    You can use fresh ginger in recipes that call for dried, but use about half the amount called for.

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    You can peel ginger root and chop it into very thin pieces for adding to any stir fry recipe.

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    Try adding thin slivers to your poached fruit recipes or compotes.

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    Grate the ginger root and add to vegetable recipes as you boil or steam them.

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    Of course, we all know that ground ginger is invaluable in holiday recipes!