What is one way to zest ginger (like citrus, with a microplane)?

Question

Learn the best way to 'zest' ginger. Find out why a microplane is the perfect tool for creating a fine, fibrous paste packed with intense flavor.

Answer 1

Yes, you can zest ginger using a microplane grater, just like you would zest citrus. This is a great way to get finely grated ginger for cooking or flavoring.

Detailed Explanation:

Zesting ginger with a microplane is a simple and effective technique. First, wash and dry the ginger root. Then, hold the ginger firmly in one hand and the microplane in the other. Gently run the ginger across the microplane's blades, applying light pressure. The microplane will shave off the outer layer of the ginger, creating a fine zest. Rotate the ginger as needed to zest all sides. Be careful not to grate too deeply, as the fibrous part of the ginger can be less desirable. The resulting zest can be added directly to recipes, infused into liquids, or used as a garnish.

Pro Tip:

For easier zesting, peel the ginger first. This removes the tough outer skin and allows the microplane to glide more smoothly. You can use a spoon to peel the ginger, scraping away the skin with the edge of the spoon.