Honey-Preserved Ginseng: A Recipe for Health and Deliciousness
Honey-Preserved Ginseng: A Recipe for Health and Deliciousness
Preserve fresh ginseng in honey for 2-3 years and utilize it in various ways.
Preserving ginseng in honey allows it to be enjoyed deliciously for 2-3 years without spoilage. The honey-preserved ginseng is versatile and used in various dishes, offering a unique blend of its natural earthy notes and the sweet richness of honey. This method enhances the ginseng’s potential health benefits while making it more palatable.
Ingredients- 1 root of fresh ginseng (approx. 300-400g)
- 1 liter of acacia honey
- 1 container of cream cheese yogurt or plain yogurt
- Moderately ripe Korean melon (chamoe), as needed
- 1 roasted or boiled egg
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by thoroughly washing the fresh ginseng under running water to remove any soil or impurities. Pay close attention to cleaning both the main roots and the delicate fine roots.
Step 2
Slice the ginseng into bite-sized, round pieces. Avoid slicing them too thinly to maintain a pleasant texture. Separate the slender fine roots, which can be preserved and steeped along with the main root slices. Arrange the sliced ginseng evenly on a sieve, ensuring the pieces do not overlap. Let them air dry completely in a shaded, well-ventilated area for about a day. Drying the ginseng thoroughly is crucial to prevent it from becoming mushy when preserved in honey and to ensure a longer shelf life.
Step 3
Once the ginseng is completely dry, carefully place it into a clean glass jar or an airtight container. Gently pour the acacia honey over the ginseng, ensuring it is fully submerged. You can gently shake the container or use chopsticks to lightly press the ginseng down, allowing the honey to seep into all the crevices. Seal the container tightly and refrigerate. Allow it to mature for at least a week, or ideally longer, for the honey’s flavor to deeply infuse the ginseng, resulting in a richer taste. (This preparation can be stored for up to 2-3 years without spoilage.)
Step 4
For reference, this is a picture of ginseng that was carefully preserved in honey approximately three years ago. It demonstrates how the ginseng retains its freshness and aroma even after a significant amount of time.
Step 5
The honey-preserved ginseng can be enjoyed as a healthy beverage on its own. Add a few pieces of the honey-steeped ginseng along with some of the honey into hot or cold water to create a delightful ‘Ginseng Honey Tea.’ This drink offers a subtle ginseng aroma and the sweet taste of honey, making it perfect for boosting energy and strengthening the immune system.
Step 6
Prepare a unique ‘Ginseng Yogurt’ by finely chopping the honey-preserved ginseng and adding it to a serving of creamy cream cheese yogurt or tangy plain yogurt. The aromatic ginseng and sweet honey create a wonderful contrast with the refreshing yogurt, making it an ideal breakfast or healthy snack option.
Step 7
This ginseng yogurt pairs beautifully with fresh fruits. Try topping it generously with slices of ripe Korean melon, juicy tomatoes, or other seasonal fruits for an even more delightful experience. The combination of fruit’s sweetness and the ginseng’s unique flavor profile elevates it into a special dessert.
Step 8
For an unexpected yet delicious treat, serve the ginseng yogurt alongside a warm roasted egg or a soft boiled egg. The savory notes of the egg, combined with the sweetness of the ginseng yogurt and its subtle herbal notes, create a surprisingly satisfying meal or snack.
