Discover this surprising method to keep fresh ginger fresh in the fridge.

If you're a fan of using fresh ginger in everything from stir-fried vegetables to curry or teriyaki sauce, you know the frustration of finding it wilted and shriveled in the fridge. It's a waste of money and time—especially if you have to run out for just one ingredient.

I've tried keeping ginger in a zip-top bag, but it doesn’t stay fresh for long. Freezing it works for grating, but slicing and dicing becomes a hassle. So what's the trick? Storing peeled ginger in alcohol.

Fresh ginger stored in a jar with alcohol.

Vanessa Greaves

How to Store Fresh Ginger in a Jar of Alcohol

Here’s What You’ll Need

Firm, glossy, unwrinkled ginger
Clean screw-top glass jar
Vodka, sake, dry sherry, or rice wine

Instructions

1. Use a paring knife, vegetable peeler, or the edge of a spoon to remove the thin skin. Trim away any dried or damaged spots. You can either chop the ginger into large pieces or leave it whole.

2. Place the peeled ginger into the jar and cover it with enough alcohol to fully submerge the ginger. Seal the jar and store it in the fridge.

To use the ginger: Take it out of the alcohol, pat it dry, and then grate, slice, or chop it as needed. Any leftover ginger can be returned to the jar, ensuring it stays fully submerged.

To use the ginger-infused alcohol: Taste it periodically to check how the flavor develops. The strength of the infusion will vary depending on the type of alcohol used. If you're making cocktails with it, just top up the jar with more of the same liquor. Personally, I find vodka to be the best choice for sipping, though I’m currently experimenting with sake for making teriyaki sauce.

5 Reasons to Store Fresh Ginger in Alcohol

1. No more wasting dried-out, shriveled ginger.

2. The ginger keeps its bold flavor and crisp texture for an extended period.

3. Only grate, slice, or dice the amount of ginger you need, then return the rest to the jar for later use.

4. Save time on prep—no need to peel ginger every time you cook with it.

5. Over time, the alcohol absorbs the ginger's essence, adding a flavorful zing, while keeping the ginger fresh and shielded from oxidation. Perfect for creating cocktails!