Spice of the Week: Ginger

Could ginger hold the key to living longer and healthier? Chinese philosopher Confucius certainly thought so. A spice that’s been cultivated in Asia for more than 3,000 years, ginger is our Spice of the Week.

 
Actually, Confucius could have been on to something. Ginger is an antioxidant which helps slow the aging process. And as an added extra, it also relieves symptoms of motion sickness. As a spice, it is the dried, ground or preserved root  of the Zingiber officinale plant. Its fascinating history (and a fantastic recipe) is described at the BLE!

Alternate recipe: Ginger chicken

1 chicken
3 tablespoons butter
1 egg
handful of peeled and coarsely chopped almonds
2 rolls
1 teaspoon ginger
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
salt

Prepare stuffing from soaked and squeezed rolls, egg, tablespoon butter, chopped almonds, ½ teaspoon ginger and parsley. Salt and mix thoroughly. Stuff chicken, salt to taste, sprinkle with ginger and surround with butter. Bake until red. Serve with potatoes and salad.