Candied Ginger, known as “pyeongang” in Korean, is a delightful treat that brings back fond memories of my grandmother’s winter kitchen. She would lovingly prepare candied citrus peels and candied ginger to add a touch of warmth and sweetness to the cold season. The process of making this sweet and spicy delicacy is surprisingly simple, making it an ideal homemade treat that you can enjoy year-round. Whether you are a fan of ginger’s zesty flavor or have a sweet tooth, candied ginger is sure to captivate your taste buds. With its versatility and delightful taste, you can use it as a snack or a garnish for your favorite desserts. So, let’s dive into this cherished recipe and discover the joy of creating candied ginger in the comfort of your own kitchen.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups thin strips peeled fresh ginger
- 2 cups granulated sugar, plus more for coating
- Brown sugar, for coating
PREPARATIONS:
- In a small stockpot over medium heat, boil the ginger strips gently in water until tender, 20 to 30 minutes.
- Drain and return the ginger to the pot. Reduce the heat to low.
- Add the sugar and ¼ cup water, mix to combine, and cook, stirring frequently, until there’s almost no liquid left.
- While the ginger strips are still hot, shake or roll them in granulated sugar and brown sugar.
- Separate the strips and lay them out on parchment paper to cool.
- Enjoy this spicy-sweet snack immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
YIELD: Serves 8
TIPS:
- Slice the candied ginger strips thinly to use as a delightful garnish for ice cream.
- Explore variations by using this recipe to make candied orange and lemon peels.
In conclusion, Candied Ginger, or “pyeongang,” is a delightful Korean treat that beautifully balances sweetness and spiciness. Passed down through generations, this cherished recipe showcases the art of transforming fresh ginger into a delectable candy. With its delightful flavor and ease of preparation, making candied ginger at home allows you to add a touch of homemade magic to your snacks and desserts.
The process of creating candied ginger starts with boiling thin strips of peeled fresh ginger until tender. This step ensures that the ginger becomes soft and absorbs the delightful flavors of the sugar coating. Once tender, the ginger strips are drained and cooked with granulated sugar and water over low heat. As the sugar caramelizes and coats the ginger, a luscious sticky glaze forms, infusing the ginger with a perfect blend of sweetness and spice.
As soon as the ginger strips are cooked, they are carefully rolled in granulated sugar and brown sugar while still hot. The sugar coating adds a delightful crunch and enhances the sweet-spicy flavor of the candied ginger. The strips are then laid out on parchment paper to cool, creating bite-sized delights that are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
The versatility of candied ginger makes it a delightful addition to various dishes. Enjoy it as a spicy-sweet snack, savoring the contrasting flavors that awaken your taste buds. Alternatively, slice the candied ginger strips thinly and use them as a delightful garnish for ice cream or other desserts. The candied ginger’s aromatic charm and natural heat can elevate even the simplest of dishes.
In addition to candied ginger, this versatile recipe can be used to create candied orange and lemon peels, expanding the array of delightful treats you can prepare at home. The possibilities are endless, and experimenting with different variations allows you to add your personal touch to this timeless recipe.
In conclusion, Candied Ginger is a cherished Korean delicacy that reflects the joy of homemade treats and the essence of culinary traditions passed down through generations. Its simple preparation and delightful flavors make it a beloved snack for all ages. Embrace the art of making candied ginger at home, and savor the satisfaction of creating a timeless treat that brings warmth and sweetness to every bite.
