Homemade Sweet & Tangy Pickled Ginger
#PickledGinger #HomemadeCondiments #EelDishPairing #QuickPickles #SideDishRecipe
Sometimes grilled eel without seasoning can be a hassle with all its bones. In such cases, pairing it with homemade sweet and tangy pickled ginger enhances the eel’s flavor and masks any fishiness, making the meal much more enjoyable. It also makes a fantastic accompaniment to leftover grilled spicy chicken or eel soup, creating a complete and nourishing meal. Elevate your healthy meal with this special homemade pickled ginger.
Pickled Ginger Ingredients
- 2 pieces of fresh ginger (approx. 100-150g)
- 1 Tbsp sugar (approx. 15g)
- 3 Tbsp pickle brine (approx. 45ml)
- 2 Tbsp water (approx. 30ml)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by preparing two pieces of fresh ginger. Store-bought pickled ginger often comes in large quantities, which can be overwhelming. This is a perfect recipe to make a small batch at home! First, thoroughly peel the ginger. Then, slice it thinly into rounds, followed by slicing these rounds into fine julienne strips. Thinly sliced ginger will absorb the pickling liquid better, resulting in a more flavorful condiment. You can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for this.
Step 2
Add 1 tablespoon of sugar to the julienned ginger. Sugar helps to mellow the pungent spiciness of the ginger and adds a touch of sweetness. It’s helpful to add the sugar first and gently massage it into the ginger. This helps to draw out some moisture from the ginger, allowing it to mix more evenly with the other ingredients.
Step 3
Next, pour in 3 tablespoons of pickle brine and 2 tablespoons of water. The pickle brine provides a delightful sweet and sour taste, effectively balancing the ginger’s natural heat and slight bitterness. Stir everything together well, then transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 3 days to let it pickle. As it rests, the pungent flavor will subside, and you’ll have a refreshing, tangy pickled ginger.
Step 4
Serve your homemade pickled ginger alongside dishes like pickled perilla leaves or rolled radishes for a complete banchan (side dish) spread. It’s particularly excellent with grilled eel, raw fish, or any grilled meat dishes, as it cleanses the palate and enhances the overall dining experience. Make this delicious pickled ginger with simple ingredients!
