In this article, we'll be talking all about ginseng. We'll tell you all about the taste, texture and uses of ginseng right in your kitchen.
Navigate This Article Using The Links Below What Does Ginseng Taste Like?
In the U.S., ginseng is most commonly used as an ingredient in candies and energy drinks. If you see an actual piece of ginseng, you'll be reminded of its tuber nature as it looks much like a whitish carrot or parsnip with tangly roots on the ends.
The flavor of ginseng root is bitter and earthy with a touch of sweetness (also like carrots). However, the bitterness is the most obvious flavor in ginseng.
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Ginseng Texture
Raw ginseng is a little tough, fibrous and woody. Ginseng may also be dried, which gives it a chewiness if it's still somewhat moist, though very dried ginseng is extremely tough.
Cooking ginseng will make it creamier, but cooking too long can damage the texture and leave it mushy. Of the options, cooked ginseng tends to have the optimal texture.
Does Ginseng Taste like Ginger?
Perhaps because ginseng is bitter and sounds similar to ginger, it's often presumed that ginseng tastes like ginger. This is not the case, however.
Unlike ginseng, ginger is spicy. That being said, you'll often see ginseng and ginger mixed together in foods and beverages, which can give you the sense that ginseng is also spicy.
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Should You Take Ginseng with Food?
Ginseng root may be cooked with in certain recipes, but quite frequently, ginseng is used to make teas or as a dietary supplement. As ginseng can be added to your meals, it's perfectly O.K. to take it with food.
If you're using ginseng as an herbal supplement, you can check with the vendor you purchased your ginseng from to find out if you should take it with food or on an empty stomach. If you're using the fresh root, you may want to do a little research to find your preference.
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How to Prepare Ginseng
Depending on the kind of ginseng you have, there are different ways to prepare it. Below are a couple of short videos to guide you.
If you have some dried ginseng, this video will show you a method of softening them up for easy slicing: steaming. You'll see how it's done and get some tips for steam times.
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Tea is a great introduction to ginseng root. This video will guide you through the tea making process as well as give you a little background information on different types of ginseng.
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Wrap Up
Even though ginseng is frequently prepared with ginger, it doesn't taste like ginger. Rather, ginseng is bitter and earthy. It makes wonderful teas, especially mixed with ginger (if you like spicy) and fresh or dried fruits. If you're looking for even more ways to use ginseng, try a vegan Korean ginseng "chicken" soup with fresh ginseng root.
