How to Peel Ginger

updated May 3, 2019

Page URL

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

(Image credit: The Kitchn)

Ginger is one of those herbs that we love all year round, but especially in February when it brightens up so many winter dishes with its fresh, spicy flavor. Right now we’re putting ginger in everything from stir-fries and sauces to cookies and cocktails, because it seems to bring a bit of Spring into the kitchen, just when we need it most.

Begin by cutting off the amount of ginger you need and then trimming it of any small nubs so that you have a relatively uniform piece to work with. (Image credit: Apartment Therapy)

But how do you peel it so you don’t lose any of its aromatic goodness? Well, believe it or not, with a spoon. That’s because while the skin of this knobby root may look tough, it’s actually quite thin and easily removed with no more than a teaspoon. Give it a try. You may find yourself as addicted to this tasty tuber as we are.

1. Begin by cutting off the amount of ginger you need and then trimming it of any small nubs so that you have a relatively uniform piece to work with.

2. Then, hold the ginger in one hand and use the tip of your spoon to scrape off the peel.

3. You’ll find it comes off very easily and that you get a smoother, more uniform end result than when you use a knife or vegetable peeler.

You can also store ginger in the fridge and freezer after it’s peeled, so you don’t have to waste a bit of this rejuvenating root.

Post written by Suzanne Lenzer, and originally published February 12, 2008.

(Images: Suzanne Lenzer)

Filed in: