Can You Use the Leaves of the Ginger Plant?

The ginger plant is most famous for its flavorful root. But the ginger plant's leaves are edible as well. The ginger plant's leaves have the same flavor as its roots, but much less pungent. And they have high levels of antioxidants, which make them a nutritional and flavorful addition to dishes.

Finely Chop Them

Ginger leaves are edible, but they are tough to chew and digest whole. The best way to add them to any recipe is to cut them down to size. Use a sharp, herb-chopping knife to dice the ginger leaves into the smallest pieces possible. For the fullest flavor, chop ginger leaves just before you use them. Keep them in the refrigerator until then or dry them in a dehydrator.

Eat Ginger Leaves Raw

Ginger leaves make a wonderful garnish. Their collective flavor is too pungent to have on their own, but they give couscous and tabbouleh a nice punch. Or try them with any mix of greens that could use a mild ginger punch. If you don't always have access to fresh ginger leaves, use them dried. They make a deliciously crisp garnish on savory meals.

Cook Ginger Leaves

Fresh ginger root can be too much of a punch for some dishes. Ginger leaves still impart the flavor you want without overpowering the other flavors in your recipe. Use 2 tbsp. of freshly chopped ginger leaves in stews or soups. Add them 15 to 20 minutes before you serve to retain their texture. Or, add them to stir fry dishes to take the flavor up a notch. Add them during the last five minutes of cooking to retain the texture of the leaves.

Use Ginger Leaves to Make Tea

Fresh and dried ginger leaves make a mild and delicious tea. Start with 1 to 2 g of tea per cup. You can add more tea as you get used to the flavor. Have ginger tea on its own or enjoy it with a wedge of lemon and a teaspoon of honey. Ginger tea also goes really well in a mix with other herbal teas.