Health benefits of candied ginger
Candied ginger is not just a tasty snack, especially during the Tết holiday, but also offers many health benefits thanks to the inherent properties of ginger. Candied ginger features the pungent spiciness of ginger combined with the sweetness of sugar, creating a warm flavor that is particularly suitable for the chilly spring weather.
1. The origin of candied ginger on Tết holiday
Ginger has long been used as a spice and medicinal herb in many parts of the world, especially in Asia. Processing ginger into preserves likely originated from the need to preserve ginger longer, especially in regions with cold climates or during winter. Sugar (or honey) is used as a natural preservative, preventing the ginger from spoiling and creating a sweet, easy-to-eat flavor.
Candied ginger is a familiar traditional dish during the Lunar New Year. When mentioning candied ginger with its own unique characteristics, people often think of Huế candied ginger.
Although candied ginger is available in many places, Huế candied ginger is highly preferred and has distinct characteristics. Huế candied ginger is often made from a special type of ginger called Gừng Tuần, grown in the gravelly hill soil northwest of Huế city, specifically at the Tuần junction, where the Tả and Hữu branches of the Hương River meet. Gừng Tuần is more aromatic and pungent than other types of ginger. This special soil has created the signature flavor of Huế candied ginger.
Huế candied ginger has the characteristic pungent spiciness of Gừng Tuần, combined with a light sweetness of sugar. The preserve usually has a beautiful clear yellow color. There are two popular types of Huế candied ginger: dry (crispy) and soft. Dry candied ginger is usually sliced thin and simmered with sugar until completely dry, offering a crisp texture. Soft candied ginger is simmered with more water, retaining its moisture and chewiness.
Huế candied ginger is not just a delicious dish but also a part of Huế's culinary culture. It is often served during holidays, especially the Lunar New Year, as a traditional treat to welcome guests and enjoy with tea.
While Huế candied ginger is famous for the unique flavor of Gừng Tuần, candied ginger is also widely produced in many other provinces across Vietnam. Each region has its own secrets and processing methods, creating diversity and richness for this traditional dish.
2. Health benefits of candied ginger
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, ginger has warm properties, acting to treat colds, warm the stomach, and support digestion. Candied ginger is considered a natural remedy to help prevent and treat common colds.
Digestive support: Ginger contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which stimulate digestion and increase gastric juice secretion, helping food digest better. Candied ginger helps reduce symptoms of bloating, indigestion, belching, and nausea after oily meals, especially during the holiday season. Ginger also has the ability to reduce stomach cramps, helping to relieve abdominal pain and discomfort.
Reducing fatigue, nausea, and motion sickness: Ginger is an effective natural remedy for reducing fatigue, nausea, and motion sickness when traveling. Eating a few slices of candied ginger before or during travel can help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
Relieving pain and inflammation: Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory properties thanks to the active ingredient gingerol. Candied ginger can help reduce joint pain and inflammation, headaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle aches.
Keeping the body warm and reducing coughs: Ginger's warm nature helps warm the body, especially in cold weather. Candied ginger can help alleviate symptoms of colds, coughs, sore throats, and nasal congestion.
Strengthening the immune system: Ginger is rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. The antioxidants in ginger also help boost the immune system, helping the body fight off infections.
Improving blood circulation: Ginger can help improve blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing platelet aggregation. This can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Supporting weight loss: By improving digestion and reducing bloating, candied ginger can support the weight loss process. However, it should be noted that candied ginger also contains sugar, so it should be consumed in moderation.