Can I Make Ginger and Garlic Paste Using Garlic Paste and Ginger Powder?

Yes, you can make a ginger and garlic paste using garlic paste and ginger powder, but the texture and flavor may differ from a paste made with fresh ginger and garlic. Here’s a simple method to do so:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons garlic paste 1 tablespoon ginger powder Water as needed

Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the garlic paste and ginger powder together. Add Water: Gradually add water to achieve your desired consistency. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. Mix Well: Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Note: Fresh ginger and garlic have a more vibrant flavor than their powdered counterparts. You might want to adjust the quantities to taste.

Storage

Store any leftover paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

However, why do all this when there are easier ways to go? You can buy garlic and ginger paste in a variety of forms, such as ready-made in a jar or already crushed and frozen into pellets. Alternatively, you can prepare the paste yourself by peeling fresh garlic and ginger, adding a little water, and blending it in a small blender.

Why Not Just Use Ready-Made Paste?

There is nothing magical about having a combined mixture of garlic and ginger. In fact, it can sometimes be a disadvantage in certain recipes. For instance, some recipes call for different amounts of garlic and ginger. In Indian fish curries, ginger is often not used—only garlic. Our family cooked a fish curry just last night without any ginger at all.

The bottom line is: Use the garlic paste you have, whether it’s from a tube or a jar, and just use the ginger powder as it is. It will still do the job, even though fresh ginger is always best for flavor. Ginger powder, on the other hand, keeps longer in the pantry.

Some Dos and Don’ts

It’s important to remember that meat dishes can generally handle a lot more garlic than vegetarian dishes and still taste good. Just make sure the garlic is cooked slowly and sufficiently but not burnt. This rule applies whether you’re using fresh garlic, paste, or powder.

Ease and Efficiency

The convenience of ready-made pastes, both garlic and ginger, is undeniable. They eliminate the need for lengthy preparation and let you focus on other aspects of your cooking, whether it's experimenting with new recipes or perfecting your technique.

Conclusion

While making a paste using garlic paste and ginger powder is possible, it might not provide the same texture and flavor as fresh paste. However, with the benefits of ready-made pastes and the option to homemade ones, you have a variety of choices to suit your cooking style and preferences. Always remember that your garlic paste can come from a tube, jar, or even your kitchen counter, making cooking more efficient and enjoyable.