Ginger is a unique, flavoursome spice that packs a nutritional punch. Hailing from Southeast Asia, ginger belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, alongside other aromatic spices such as turmeric, cardamom and galangal. Its distinctive taste adds zest to sweet and savoury dishes, making it an indispensable part of many recipes. Ginger is helpful out of the kitchen too. Researchers continue to study ginger for its potential in fighting disease.
Is Ginger Gluten-Free?
YES. GINGER IS GLUTEN-FREE.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. It’s what gives bread its chewy texture and helps it rise.
Ginger is derived from the root of a flowering plant and is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for people with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance/allergy to consume. You’ll find ginger root in your local supermarket’s fresh produce section. It’s generally on the shelf with onion and garlic.
While ginger is gluten-free in its natural state, you need to be cautious when purchasing or consuming processed ginger products. For example, ground ginger is found in the herb and spice section of the supermarket. While the only ingredient should be ginger, sometimes a gluten-containing anti-caking agent is added. Alternatively, some brands may carry a “may contain gluten” label, as the ground ginger may have come in contact with gluten-containing ingredients during production.
Health Benefits of Ginger
Ginger contains a powerful compound called gingerol. It’s a natural compound with a long history of treating various ailments in both traditional and alternative medicine.
Ginger’s medicinal properties continue to be studied. So far, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and even cancer-fighting benefits have been discovered to date. Furthermore, studies show that consuming ginger can help improve digestive health and reduce nausea.
How to Incorporate Ginger into a Gluten-Free Diet
Ginger is a versatile ingredient useful in both sweet and savoury dishes. Here are some ideas for incorporating ginger into your gluten-free diet:
- Add grated ginger to stir-fries, curries, soups, and stews for extra flavour and aroma.
- Use fresh ginger in smoothies, juices or tea for a refreshing and healthy drink.
- Make ginger-infused oil by heating oil and ginger slices in a pan, then strain and use for cooking.
- Bake gluten-free gingerbread, ginger snaps, or ginger cake using gluten-free flour and spices.
For more inspiration and ways to cook with ginger visit the recipe section of this site.
Some of our favourite recipes include:
Soy and Ginger Fish
Ginger Beef
Chicken & Ginger Wontons
Ginger Slice
Ginger is a naturally gluten-free ingredient that people with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity can safely consume. However, some processed ginger products may contain gluten, so it’s essential to read the label and check for any potential sources of gluten. By incorporating ginger into your gluten-free diet, you can enjoy its health benefits and delicious taste.
