Thai Ginger / Fresh Galangal Overview
Galangal, often referred to as Thai ginger, is a unique root similar to ginger but with a more intense, peppery flavor and hints of citrus. Widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine, it brings a warm, zesty taste to curries, soups, and stir-fries. Its texture is more fibrous and woody compared to ginger, so it’s typically either grated or sliced thinly.
Health Benefits of Galangal
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Galangal contains compounds that help reduce inflammation and may be beneficial in relieving conditions like arthritis.
- Antioxidant Rich: Its high antioxidant content helps fight free radicals, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Boosts Immunity: Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help support immune health.
- Improves Digestive Health: Traditionally used to ease nausea and improve digestion, galangal is effective against stomach discomfort and indigestion.
- May Aid in Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that galangal’s compounds may inhibit the growth of cancer cells, especially in breast and colon cancer.
Nutritional Value (Per 100g of Fresh Galangal)
- Calories: 71 kcal
- Protein: 1.0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17.4 g
- Fiber: 2.0 g
- Fat: 0.3 g
- Vitamin C: 5.0 mg
- Potassium: 450 mg
- Iron: 1.0 mg
- Calcium: 20 mg
How to Eat Galangal
- In Soups and Stews: Add sliced or bruised pieces of galangal to soups like Tom Yum for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Curries: Add grated galangal to curry pastes or directly into dishes.
- Stir-Fries: Slice thinly or julienne, and add to stir-fries for a zesty twist.
- Teas and Tisanes: Slice thin pieces, boil with water, and drink as tea for digestive health.
- Infused Oils and Marinades: Use grated galangal to infuse oils or marinades for meats and vegetables.
Galangal’s Flavor Profile
Galangal has a robust, peppery flavor that is both citrusy and mildly floral. It’s more potent than ginger, so it’s used sparingly in recipes.
Recipes Using Galangal
Thai Ginger / Galangal Recipes
Indian Recipes
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Galangal-Infused Vegetable Curry
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Ingredients:
- Galangal (grated): 1 tbsp
- Mixed vegetables (carrot, potato, bell peppers): 1 cup
- Coconut milk: 1 cup
- Turmeric powder: 1/2 tsp
- Chili powder: 1/2 tsp
- Cumin seeds: 1/2 tsp
- Coriander powder: 1 tsp
- Oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt: to taste
- Water: 1/2 cup
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Steps:
- Heat oil, add cumin seeds until they splutter.
- Add grated galangal, turmeric, and chili powder; sauté for a minute.
- Add vegetables and stir.
- Pour in coconut milk and water, cook for 15 minutes.
- Season and serve with rice or roti.
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Ingredients:
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Galangal and Lentil Soup
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Ingredients:
- Red lentils: 1 cup
- Galangal (sliced): 2 tbsp
- Onion (chopped): 1
- Garlic (chopped): 2 cloves
- Tomato (chopped): 1
- Turmeric: 1/2 tsp
- Cumin powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: to taste
- Water: 3 cups
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Steps:
- In a pot, combine lentils, galangal, and water.
- Add onions, garlic, tomato, and spices.
- Cook until lentils soften (20–25 minutes).
- Season and serve hot.
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Ingredients:
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Galangal Rice Pilaf
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Ingredients:
- Basmati rice: 1 cup
- Galangal (sliced): 1 tbsp
- Cardamom pods: 2
- Cloves: 2
- Cinnamon stick: 1
- Salt: to taste
- Water: 2 cups
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Steps:
- Rinse rice; set aside.
- Heat oil, add spices, and galangal; sauté.
- Add rice and water; bring to a boil.
- Cover, simmer for 15 minutes, then serve.
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Ingredients:
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Spicy Galangal Chutney
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Ingredients:
- Grated galangal: 2 tbsp
- Green chili: 1
- Fresh coriander: 1/4 cup
- Salt: to taste
- Lemon juice: 1 tsp
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Steps:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Serve with snacks or as a dip for rice dishes.
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Ingredients:
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Galangal-Marinated Paneer Skewers
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Ingredients:
- Paneer cubes: 200g
- Galangal (grated): 1 tbsp
- Yogurt: 1/4 cup
- Turmeric: 1/2 tsp
- Garam masala: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: to taste
- Skewers
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Steps:
- Mix galangal, yogurt, spices, and marinate paneer for 30 minutes.
- Skewer and grill until golden, then serve hot.
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Ingredients:
Non-Indian Recipes
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Tom Yum Soup with Galangal
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Ingredients:
- Galangal (sliced): 2 tbsp
- Shrimp: 100g
- Mushrooms: 1/2 cup
- Fish sauce: 1 tbsp
- Lime juice: 1 tbsp
- Chili paste: 1 tsp
- Water or stock: 2 cups
- Fresh cilantro: for garnish
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Steps:
- Boil water, add galangal, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add mushrooms, shrimp, fish sauce, chili paste, and lime juice.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
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Ingredients:
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Galangal Coconut Curry
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Ingredients:
- Galangal (grated): 1 tbsp
- Coconut milk: 1 cup
- Chicken or tofu: 150g
- Bell peppers (sliced): 1/2 cup
- Lime leaves: 2
- Fish sauce: 1 tsp
- Salt: to taste
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Steps:
- Heat coconut milk, add galangal, and lime leaves.
- Add protein and bell peppers; cook until tender.
- Season with fish sauce and salt, then serve.
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Ingredients:
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Thai Galangal Salad Dressing
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Ingredients:
- Grated galangal: 1 tsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Lime juice: 1 tbsp
- Honey: 1 tsp
- Salt: to taste
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Steps:
- Whisk all ingredients together.
- Use as a dressing over mixed greens or Thai salads.
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Ingredients:
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Galangal-Infused Vegetable Stir-Fry
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Ingredients:
- Galangal (thinly sliced): 1 tbsp
- Mixed vegetables (bell pepper, broccoli, carrots): 1 cup
- Soy sauce: 1 tbsp
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
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Steps:
- Sauté galangal in olive oil.
- Add vegetables, cook for 5–7 minutes.
- Add soy sauce, season, and serve.
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Ingredients:
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Galangal-Lemonade Drink
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Ingredients:
- Fresh galangal (sliced): 2 tsp
- Lemon juice: 2 tbsp
- Honey: 1 tbsp
- Water: 1 cup
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Steps:
- Boil galangal in water, let it cool.
- Add lemon juice and honey, stir well.
- Serve over ice for a refreshing beverage.
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Ingredients:
Galangal is a versatile root that can enhance a variety of dishes, adding a unique peppery-citrus flavor to both traditional and modern recipes. Enjoy experimenting with it in your cooking!