Candied Ginger: A Sweet and Spicy Treat You Can Make at Home

Have you ever bitten into a piece of candied ginger and felt the perfect balance of sweetness and spice? This homemade treat is not just delicious—it’s also packed with health benefits, making it a great addition to your pantry. Whether you’re using it for baking, snacking, or soothing an upset stomach, learning how to make your own candied ginger at home is a game-changer.

Unlike store-bought versions, homemade candied ginger has a fresher taste, better texture, and no preservatives. Plus, it’s easy to make with just three simple ingredients! In this guide, you’ll discover the best way to prepare, store, and enjoy candied ginger, along with some creative ways to use it. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Candied Ginger Recipe

• All-Natural & Preservative-Free – No artificial ingredients, just fresh ginger, sugar, and water.
• Sweet & Spicy Balance – A delightful treat with a mild heat and caramelized sweetness.
• Easy to Make – Requires just three ingredients and minimal effort.
• Great for Digestion – Helps relieve nausea, bloating, and motion sickness.
• Versatile Uses – Enjoy it as a snack, add it to baked goods, or mix it into teas.

Ingredients for Homemade Candied Ginger

Here’s what you’ll need to make perfectly chewy and sweet candied ginger.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Fresh ginger root	9 oz (about 1 ½ cups, chopped)
Water	3 cups
Granulated sugar	1 ¼ cups

Optional Additions

• Extra sugar for coating – For a crispier texture.
• Cinnamon or vanilla – Adds extra warmth and depth.
• Lemon zest – Enhances the citrusy notes of ginger.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ginger

• Peel the ginger using a spoon or vegetable peeler.
• Slice it into thin, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

2. Boil the Ginger

• In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil.
• Add the ginger slices and simmer for 30 minutes to soften them.

3. Add the Sugar

• Drain the ginger, reserving ¼ cup of the ginger-infused water.
• Return the ginger to the saucepan, add sugar and the reserved water, and stir.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the ginger is translucent (about 20 minutes).

4. Dry the Candied Ginger

• Remove the ginger slices from the syrup and place them on a wire rack or parchment paper.
• Let them dry for 1-2 hours until tacky but not wet.

5. Coat with Sugar (Optional)

• Toss the ginger slices in additional sugar for a crispier finish.

6. Store & Enjoy

• Once fully dried, store candied ginger in an airtight container at room temperature.

Pro Tips for Perfect Candied Ginger

1. Choosing the Best Ginger

• Use fresh, young ginger for a milder taste and softer texture.
• If using older ginger, expect a stronger, spicier flavor.

2. Controlling the Spice Level

• For milder candied ginger, boil it for an extra 5-10 minutes before adding sugar.
• Want it spicier? Use less sugar and cook for a shorter time.

3. Reusing the Leftover Syrup

• Don’t throw away the ginger syrup—it’s liquid gold!
• Use it in cocktails, tea, homemade sodas, or as a pancake drizzle.

Creative Ways to Use Candied Ginger

Candied ginger isn’t just a sweet snack—it’s a versatile ingredient that can elevate many dishes.

1. Baking & Desserts

• Add chopped candied ginger to cookies, muffins, and cakes for a zesty kick.
• Melt it into caramel sauces for a unique twist.

2. Drinks & Infusions

• Stir into hot tea or coffee for a soothing effect.
• Use as a garnish for cocktails, mocktails, or ginger beer.

3. Savory Dishes

• Toss into stir-fries or glazes for meats like chicken or pork.
• Pair with cheese and nuts on a charcuterie board.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	90
Carbohydrates	24g
Sugar	20g
Fiber	1g
Vitamin C	2%

Note: Nutritional values vary based on portion size and sugar coating.

Variations & Substitutes

1. Sugar-Free Candied Ginger

• Replace granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia for a low-carb option.

2. Honey Candied Ginger

• Swap white sugar for honey for a natural sweetness and softer texture.

3. Spiced Candied Ginger

• Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a spiced version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does homemade candied ginger last?

When stored in an airtight container, candied ginger lasts up to 3 months at room temperature.

2. Can I freeze candied ginger?

Yes! Freeze candied ginger in a sealed container for up to 6 months.

3. How do I make candied ginger less sticky?

After drying, toss the ginger in extra sugar or cornstarch to reduce stickiness.

4. Can I make candied ginger without sugar?

Yes! Substitute honey or a sugar alternative for a healthier option.

5. Is candied ginger healthy?

Yes! Ginger is great for digestion, nausea relief, and inflammation, but candied ginger does contain sugar, so enjoy in moderation.

6. Can I use powdered ginger instead of fresh ginger?

No, fresh ginger is essential for the chewy texture of candied ginger.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Homemade candied ginger is a delicious, easy-to-make treat that you can enjoy in baking, snacking, or cooking. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a sweet, spicy, and natural treat that’s better than anything store-bought.

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