Craving a sweet and spicy treat that's easy to make at home? Look no further than candied ginger!
Last week's "Drink the Wild: The Apothecary" workshop was a whirlwind of botanical delights, and for attendees, a taste of magic came home in a jar. We tasted Ginger Honey Syrup using the recipe straight from the pages of "Drink the Wild: Recipes from the Apothecary of a Kitchen Witch for the Spirited and Sober Soul."
This isn't your average syrup. It's a "Swiss Army Knife" for your home apothecary! ️ Craft cocktails or zero-proof elixirs that tantalize the tastebuds. Add a touch to your tea for a warming, soothing sip. Feeling a gurgle in your tummy? A spoonful of this syrup can work wonders.
And in the spirit of sustainability, we didn't let a single piece of ginger go to waste! Attendees also went home with candied ginger, made from the leftover ginger used in the syrup. ♻️
Want to whip up this magical elixir yourself? We've got you covered! Below, find the bonus recipe for candied ginger from the leftover bits. Let the wildcrafting begin! ✨
Candied Ginger Recipe
Here is an additional BONUS recipe to use the leftover ginger pieces after crafting the Ginger Honey Syrup.
Ingredients
2 cups distilled water
2 1/2 cups sugar - reserve 1/2 cup for the end result
With the ginger and the remaining 1 1/2 - 2 cups of water (approximate) still in the pot, add an additional 2 cups of water and heat over medium-high heat.
Add 2 cups of sugar once the water begins a rolling boil. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Boil for another 45 minutes. Stir occasionally while boiling to ensure the sugar does not burn.
Remove the pan from the heat and drain away the syrup. I have been known to keep the extra spicy syrup for other uses so don't throw it out! Let it cool and store it in a jar with a lid in the refrigerator for another witchy day.
Place the ginger pieces on a plate lined with parchment paper or a cooling rack. Sift an additional ½ cup of white granulated sugar over the ginger pieces. Allow the ginger to cool then remove them from the parchment paper or cooling rack and store in a glass jar with a lid in the refrigerator.
While candied ginger offers a delightful sugary punch, it also boasts some of the health benefits of its fresh counterpart. Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory, so candied ginger may help soothe aches and pains. Additionally, ginger is known to calm nausea, so candied ginger could be a tasty remedy for motion sickness or morning sickness. Just remember, moderation is key – the added sugar content means enjoying candied ginger in small portions.
Important Notice
Do not try self-diagnosis or attempt self-treatment for serious or long-term problems without first consulting a qualified medical herbalist or medical practitioner as appropriate. Do not exceed any dosages recommended. Always consult a professional practitioner if symptoms persist. If taking prescribed medicines, seek professional medical advice before using herbal remedies.