Galangal - Its Benefits, Uses, and Precautions

In our daily cooking, we often add various ingredients to enhance the freshness and taste of our dishes. Galangal is a commonly used ingredient. Although some may find its taste spicy and not particularly palatable, there are numerous benefits to consuming it in moderation. So, what are the benefits and contraindications of galangal? Galangal has the functions of warming the stomach, dispelling cold, removing fishy odor, anti-aging, and aroma therapy, but it is not recommended to consume too much.

Benefits and Functions of Galangal

1. Warming the stomach and dispelling cold

For those who experience symptoms of stomach cold, vomiting, and abdominal pain, galangal can be used in cooking or made into a tea. Drinking a warm cup of galangal tea can warm the spleen and stomach and dispel coldness. The preparation is simple; add a large amount of galangal to the dish near the end of cooking, or boil sliced galangal in boiling water.

2. Removing fishy odor

Similar to ginger, galangal can be added to dishes such as fish, stir-fried beef, or marinated duck to remove fishy odors and enhance the flavor. Before cooking, it is recommended to slice the galangal and fry it in a pan for two minutes before removing it. Then, add the prepared ingredients to the pan, stir-fry for a few minutes, and finally add the fried galangal slices to enjoy its aroma.

3. Anti-aging

Regular consumption of galangal can effectively antioxidize and make people look younger. Additionally, it has anticancer properties. Adding galangal to dishes can help kill cancerous cells in the body and prevent cancer.

4. Aroma therapy

Dried and crushed galangal can be burned in a censer to purify the air and kill bacteria.

Precautions for Consuming Galangal

While consuming galangal has numerous benefits, it is a spicy ingredient. Therefore, those who dislike spicy food or do not frequently consume it should consume it sparingly or avoid chewing it directly to prevent excessive irritation to the stomach and intestines.

How to Consume Galangal

1. Making Galangal Powder

A common way to consume galangal is to dry it, grind it into a powder, and use it in cooking. It can be added to seasonings, dishes, or grilled foods to enhance flavor and remove unpleasant odors, making the food more appealing.

2. Pickled Galangal

Galangal can also be pickled. To pickle fresh galangal, wash it thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or sand. Dry it thoroughly and cut it into slices about 0.5 cm thick. Place the slices in a sealable glass jar and add an appropriate amount of sugar and salt. Add a small amount of soy sauce and vinegar, seal the jar, and let it pickle for about ten days.

3. Stir-fried Galangal

Fresh galangal can also be stir-fried. It can be paired with pork belly or bacon. If using bacon, wash it first, steam it for half an hour, and then cut it into slices. Slice the fresh galangal as well. Heat oil in a frying pan, add the bacon and stir-fry until it turns transparent. Then, add the galangal and stir-fry evenly. Season with a little soy sauce and salt, and cook until done. Serve and enjoy!