Instead of storing ginger in the refrigerator, you can use the following methods to keep it fresh and ready to use at any time.

Ginger is a common spice used in many dishes. It has a pungent, warming flavor and is often used to neutralize the fishy smell of meat, fish, and seafood. Additionally, it is used as a medicinal ingredient to treat colds, reduce heat, warm the body, relieve nausea, and prevent motion sickness.

However, when stored for a long time at home, ginger can sprout, shrink, or rot. Spoiled ginger may produce harmful substances that are unsafe for consumption.

You don’t necessarily have to keep ginger in the fridge to preserve it.

---

1. Preserving ginger with baking soda

Fresh ginger does not need to be washed; simply wipe off surface dirt with a dry cloth. Allow it to air dry in a ventilated area.

Prepare a cardboard box and line the bottom with newspaper or paper towels. Sprinkle a little baking soda on top—it helps absorb moisture. Place a layer of ginger on top, then sprinkle more baking soda over it. Repeat this layering until all the ginger is stored. Keep the box in a dry, airy place.

Using baking soda can help preserve ginger for a long time.

---

2. Preserving ginger with rice

Clean the ginger thoroughly to remove dirt. If you wash it with water, allow it to dry completely in a ventilated area. Then, take some rice and place it in a box or bag. Bury the ginger in the rice.

The rice creates a dry environment that absorbs excess moisture. The rice coating also reduces direct air exposure, helping the ginger stay fresh longer.

---

3. Preserving ginger with sand

Sand helps reduce air circulation and prevent moisture loss, keeping ginger fresh for a longer period. This method is very simple: take a small container or bucket, fill it with clean sand, and bury the ginger in it, covering it with sand.

Note: Do not wash the ginger before storing in sand to avoid affecting its quality.

---

4. Preserving ginger in salt water

You can wash the ginger to remove dirt and sand. Then, prepare a diluted saltwater solution and soak the ginger for about 20 minutes. Remove the ginger, dry it thoroughly with paper towels, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Store it in a ventilated area.

---

No matter which method you choose, regularly check the condition of the ginger. If you notice any signs of rot, spoilage, or sprouting, remove those pieces immediately to prevent affecting the remaining ginger.