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"How to Make and Store Ginger Garlic Paste – Easy & Long-Lasting Recipe (No Preservatives!)"
Why Homemade Ginger Garlic Paste is Best
Tired of store-bought ginger garlic paste that lacks flavour and is packed with preservatives? Try this easy DIY ginger garlic paste recipe—a fresher, healthier alternative with a longer shelf life! Packed with flavour and perfect for quick cooking, it's completely preservative-free!
I have always been someone who prefers making fresh ginger garlic paste whenever a recipe calls for it. Store-bought versions never appealed to me. However, a few years ago, when I fell sick with chickenpox and severe GI inflammation, my daughter stepped up to manage the kitchen while juggling her online classes and exams. She prepped several ready-to-use items like ginger garlic paste, curry bases, pasta sauces, and even homemade paneer. Watching her meticulous planning and execution amazed me, making me realise how perfectly she handled everything.
Fresh, Preservative-Free Ginger Garlic Paste for Everyday Cooking
Once I recovered, I adopted some of her time-saving methods, including making a batch of ginger garlic paste for convenience. At first, I noticed that the paste would turn green, possibly due to oxidation. After experimenting, I found that adding turmeric and salt prevented discolouration, and topping it with a layer of oil helped extend its shelf life. Trust me, this is one of the best Indian cooking hacks to save time in the kitchen while ensuring fresh, preservative-free flavour.
The Game-Changer
Once I started making these ready-to-use ginger garlic pastes, there was no looking back! Now, I always keep bottles of homemade ginger garlic paste stocked up, ready to use in Indian curries and everyday cooking. It’s a total time-saver, making meal prep effortless. Plus, these flavourful and fresh pastes come with the added bonus of being completely preservative-free—pure homemade goodness in every dish!
Why You need Homemade Ginger Garlic Paste
- This time-saving kitchen tip helps you cut down prep time and makes everyday cooking effortless.
- Knowing how to store ginger garlic paste properly ensures that it stays fresh and fragrant for months.
Why settle for the bottled stuff? Check out these Recipes that uses Homemade Ginger Garlic Paste! Your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh, homemade, and free from preservatives.
- Enhances flavour in curries, stir-fries, and marinades.
- Easy to store and lasts longer with simple preservation techniques.
- Saves time in everyday cooking.
Craving a quick and flavourful curry? Try this Homemade Ginger Garlic Paste recipe which can be used in recipes like Murg Makhani, Chicken Tikka Masala, Matar Paneer Gravy, Chana Masala etc.,
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Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: Indian
- Yield: Approx. 2–3 cups
- Recipe Type: Condiment
- Author: SM
Time Estimate
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking to simplify your cooking? Explore a variety of ready-to-use homemade Podi and flavourful masala powders!
How to Make and Store Ginger Garlic Paste – Time-Saving Kitchen Tips
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Ingredients for Homemade Ginger Garlic Paste
- 500 grams Fresh Ginger, peeled and chopped
- 500 grams Garlic Cloves, peeled
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder (Optional)
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 2 tablespoons Oil (for preservation)
Method - Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and dry the ginger and garlic thoroughly.
- Use a spoon or knife to peel the ginger skin.
- If using whole garlic cloves, peel them (or buy pre-peeled garlic for convenience).
- Ensure both are completely dry before grinding to prevent excess moisture.
*Pro Tip: Moisture can reduce shelf life, so always dry ingredients completely before blending.
Step 2. Blend the Paste
- Add ginger, garlic, turmeric, and salt to a mixer/grinder.
- Blend until smooth, adding a splash of oil if needed.
- Scrape down the sides and blend again to ensure an even texture.
*Pro Tip: Avoid adding water while grinding; oil helps with consistency and preservation.
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Easy D.I.Y Ginger Garlic Paste - Fresh, Preservative-Free & Long-Lasting |
Step 3. Store Properly
- Transfer the paste to clean, airtight glass jars.
- Pour a thin layer of oil on top to preserve freshness.
- Store one jar in the refrigerator and another in the freezer for long-term use.
*Pro Tip: Always use a dry spoon to scoop out the paste to prevent spoilage.
How to Store Ginger Garlic Paste for Maximum Freshness
Best Ways to Store Ginger Garlic Paste for Long Shelf Life
- Fridge: Stays fresh for up to 3–4 weeks.
- Freezer: Lasts up to 3 months. Use ice cube trays for portioned storage.
*Pro Tip: Always use a dry spoon to scoop out the paste to prevent spoilage.
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Pro Tips & Notes
How to Store Homemade Ginger Garlic Paste Without Preservatives
- Prevent Discolouration: Adding turmeric and salt prevents the paste from turning green due to oxidation and also extends shelf life.
- Top with Oil: A thin layer of oil on top helps seal in freshness and extends shelf life.
- Use Ice Cube Trays: Freezing in small portions makes it easier to thaw only what you need.
- Dry Utensils Only: Always use a dry spoon to avoid introducing moisture.
Planning a Party Menu? Use this Homemade Ginger Garlic Paste to make Tandoori Chicken or Chicken Lollipops
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FAQs
1) Why Does Ginger Garlic Paste Turn Green?
Ginger garlic paste can sometimes develop a greenish hue due to natural chemical reactions in garlic. While this is usually harmless, it’s best to prevent it for better shelf life and appearance.
Key Reasons:
- Sulphur Compounds in Garlic: React with air and storage conditions, leading to discolouration.
- Oxidation: Prolonged exposure to air accelerates greening.
- Acidic Reactions: Ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar can trigger colour changes (I personally don’t recommend using them).
- Water Content: Adding water while grinding can contribute to oxidation and shorten shelf life.
How to Prevent It:
- No Water While Grinding: Avoid water; instead, add salt for a smoother consistency.
- Turmeric & Salt: One of the common Indian cooking hacks is to add turmeric and salt, which prevents oxidation, maintains freshness and helps prevent discolouration.
- Oil Layer: Sealing the top with oil extends freshness.
- Airtight Storage: Store in a clean, dry, airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
2) Is Green Ginger Garlic Paste Safe to Eat?
- A greenish tint is usually safe, but if your paste develops a sour smell, slimy texture, or off taste, it's best to discard it.
3) Can I store ginger garlic paste without refrigeration?
- Since homemade paste has no preservatives, refrigeration or freezing is essential to maintain its freshness.
4) How much paste equals fresh ginger and garlic?
1 tablespoon of ginger garlic paste = approximately 1 teaspoon each of minced ginger and garlic.
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Time-Saving Kitchen Hack!
Making your own ginger garlic paste is a total game-changer! It cuts down prep time while keeping that bold, fresh flavour intact. Plus, with turmeric and oil, it stays fresh for longer—no preservatives needed!
Homemade Ginger Garlic Paste – Aromatic, Versatile & Always Ready!
Recipes That Uses Homemade Ginger Garlic Paste
Why stop at making this essential paste when you can put it to good use in some of the most-loved recipes on the blog? Try these flavour-packed dishes:
- Fish Tawa Fry
- Fish 65
- Kerala Prawn Roast
- Chicken Popcorn
- Biriyani & Pulao Recipes
- Shahi Korma
- Egg Kadai Masala
- Kerala Egg Roast
Click on the links and bring out the best in these dishes with fresh, homemade Ginger Garlic Paste!
Give it a try and let me know how it works for you!
If you love time-saving kitchen tips, check out these other homemade pantry staples
Cooking just got easier!!!
