Ginger dressing is a salad dressing, popular in Asian countries. It is also called as sesame ginger dressing or sesame dressing. It is used as a topping in salads in Asian restaurants. Made of several ingredients, the ginger dressing is both sweet and spicy. It has a vibrant orange-yellow color. It has a soft creamy texture with finely ground ginger.
History
The ginger is a spice that has been valued for its medicinal properties since ancient times. It is reported that ancient Roman doctors used it extensively as a remedy for stomach upset, and the Greek philosopher recommended it for good health. Ginger was also one of the widely used ingredients in cooking in the Indian subcontinent. Thus, it is believed that the ginger dressing must have evolved from the extensive use of ginger in Asian countries.
Culinary Uses
The ginger dressing is widely used in salads as a topping. It is especially good with spinach salad, shrimp salad, or cabbage salad.
Popular Recipes
One of the popular ginger dressing recipes are the Japanese-style carrot ginger dressing and sesame ginger dressing.
Cuisines Using Ginger Dressing
Ginger has been used in Japanese and Indian cuisine for several decades. It is especially popular in the Japanese culinary tradition, where Japanese steakhouses are have a specialty ginger dressing recipe.
Preferable Cooking Methods
A typical ginger dressing is made by using minced ginger, sesame oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, and honey. The carrot ginger dressing used in Japanese restaurants uses shredded carrots which are pureed. The other ingredients such as sesame oil, vinegar, soy sauce, and salt are added to this and blended well.
Nutritive Value
The Ginger dressing has many vitamins and minerals contained in it. Potassium, manganese, copper, magnesium, and vitamin B6 are some of the nutrients in ginger. The sesame oil is rich in vitamin C, iron, calcium, and zinc, which promote overall good health. Ginger has properties which are effective in treating conditions like upset stomach and diarrhea. It also helps control nausea and vomiting.
Buying/Storing Tips
While the ginger dressing can be made at home, it is also available in the stores. The shelf life of the ginger dressing depends on how acidic it is. The acidity comes from the lemon, vinegar, and salt used in the dressing. Ginger dressing can be stored in the refrigerator.
Trivia
The ginger dressing can be made low in fat by using low-fat sesame oil or using olive oil.
