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Home » Easy Vegetarian Indian Recipes

Published: May 2, 2021 · Modified: May 10, 2024 by Padma Kumar

Garlic Ginger Paste Recipe

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This garlic ginger paste recipe comes together in just 10 minutes and could be one of the handiest additions to your meal-prepping routine. It contains no preservatives yet remains fresh for weeks!

Homemade ginger garlic paste placed in a white round bowl which is placed on a black board and with garlic cloves and ginger pieces on the side.

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I've always had reservations about store-bought spices and sauces; they just feel "unclean" to me, if you catch my drift!

With my homemade curry powder substitute and this ginger garlic paste at hand, I can whip up a delicious meal anytime! My younger one fondly calls it gg paste .

There are actually two good reasons why I adore this garlic ginger paste recipe: its versatility - a spoonful of this can elevate any dish to the next level. I use it in classic Indian dishes like smoked aubergine curry and bhindi masala, as well as in inspired dishes like spicy couscous and potato pasta.

Another reason why this recipe holds a special place in my heart is that it's made with all-natural ingredients and yet lasts for weeks without turning an unpleasant and greenish.

This post contains helpful notes and tips to help you make the perfect dish. However, if you are in a rush, please use the "Jump to Recipe" link above or the "Jump to" links below to get to the section you want.

Jump to:
  • Allergens Free Labels
  • What is the ratio of garlic to ginger in paste?
  • Ingredients
  • How long will home made ginger garlic paste last?
  • Instructions
  • Notes
  • How to use ginger garlic paste
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • 📖 Recipe
  • Comments

Allergens Free Labels

This ginger & garlic paste is made with all-natural ingredients, is a plant-based recipe, and is:

  • gluten-free
  • grain-free
  • dairy-free
  • nut-free
  • soy-free

This recipe also has no tomatoes and no mustard.

Disclaimer: Our content aims to be informative and educational, but it should not replace professional medical advice. Since manufacturing processes can vary and cross-contamination is possible, it's essential to verify product labels and allergen information. Make sure all ingredients align with your specific allergies. As readers, you bear the responsibility for ensuring allergen safety when buying or consuming foods.

What is the ratio of garlic to ginger in paste?

There is no hard and fast rule about the ginger-garlic paste ratio. It can depend on your individual preference. I prefer a 1:1 ratio, meaning equal quantities of ginger and garlic.

If you favor garlic more than ginger, increase the quantity of garlic. If you prefer ginger over garlic, use more ginger.

I use my kitchen scales to measure the ingredients so that I get the ratio right, everytime.

Ingredients

This recipe requires just 5 ingredients - ginger and garlic being the two main ones. As always, refer to the recipe card for quantities.

Ingredients for garlic ginger puree placed in wooden plates on a white stripy background.

Oil: I suggest using only neutral oil. Oils with distinct flavors such as avocado, peanut, and olive oil will alter the taste of the dish to which you add this paste.

Ginger: Please use fresh ginger root. I do not recommend frozen ginger for this recipe. The rationale is that for extended shelf-life, this paste should contain as little external moisture as possible.

Salt: It serves as both a preservative and an abrasive to help in making the paste smooth.

If you have any questions regarding these ingredients, feel free to ask in the comments section below and I will try my best to answer them for you.

How long will home made ginger garlic paste last?

This homemade ginger-garlic paste will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. So feel free to make a big batch of it.

Store it in a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Always use a clean, dry spoon and do not keep the jar at room temperature for too long.

Can I freeze ginger garlic paste?

Yes, ginger-garlic paste is perfect for freezing! Place a 2-teaspoon-sized serving of this paste in ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, remove from the trays and store these frozen cubes in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Add one or more cubes as needed for the recipe, straight from frozen.

Instructions

Learning how to make garlic ginger paste will make cooking such a pleasure! Imagine having to peel garlic and pound ginger on a busy weeknight?!

Include making this paste in your weekly meal prep routine, and you'll have a genie in a bottle 😆. Come, let's make it.

Step 1: Wash the ginger. Chop it into small pieces. Peel the garlic and chop them too.

Chopped pieces of adrak and lehsun placed in a wooden plate.

Step 2: Make the gg paste: Place the chopped ginger and garlic in a blender jar. Add the water, oil, and salt. Grind to a smooth, lump-free puree.

The smaller your ginger and garlic pieces are, the faster they will grind to a smooth puree.

Transfer the paste to a bowl and allow it to cool completely. And that's it, your beautiful, ivory-colored ginger & garlic paste is ready for you to add to your dishes.

Check the section below to learn how to use ginger garlic paste and also when to add it while cooking.

Notes

Yield: These measurements will yield approximately ⅓ cup (about 70 grams) of the paste.

To peel or not peel the ginger?: I do not peel the ginger. You can if you want. The easiest way to do this is to scrape the skin with a spoon.

Do not have a blender? You can make it in a mortar and pestle or a food processor. Keep in mind that you may not get a fine, smooth paste.

Why does my ginger garlic paste turn green?

The sign of good gg paste is that it should be ivory-colored and smell fresh. Your paste may have turned green or bluish-green for one or more of these reasons:

  1. You have not used the adequate quantity of oil and salt. Remember, both salt and oil are natural preservatives, and using them in the quantities mentioned in this recipe is necessary.
  2. You have not used a high-speed blender to grind the paste. As I have also explained in this amla pudina chutney and green chutney recipe posts, grinding causes friction and heat. Therefore the longer ginger and garlic are exposed to heat and friction, the more likely they are to become greenish in color.
  3. You have added more water than what is mentioned. Too much moisture will cause mold to form.
  4. You have not used a dry, clean spoon, and/or you have kept the jar at room temperature for too long.

Any doubts or questions? Feel free to ask via the comments below. I will try my best to answer them for you. - Padma

How to use ginger garlic paste

An essential ingredient in Indian food, and particularly in many North Indian dishes, I use garlic and ginger paste in many non-Indian dishes such as these teriyaki glass noodles with great outcomes!

Here are some basics to keep in mind:

  • Most recipes will state the quantity clearly. If not, as a rule of thumb, for a dish serving 4 people, add 2 teaspoons of garlic ginger paste.
  • Add this paste into your curries and lentils. For example, when I am making this mung bean curry on busy days, instead of chopping, I add some of the paste.
  • Classic Indian recipes of biryani or pulao recipe cannot be complete without this paste!

When to add ginger garlic paste while cooking?

As with all spices and aromatics, for the best flavor, add this paste toward the beginning of the cooking process, unless otherwise specified. It is typically added after frying the whole spices and onions (if the recipe calls for it). After adding the paste, fry it until it loses its raw edge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ginger garlic paste instead of ginger and garlic?

Yes, you can absolutely use ginger garlic paste as a substitute for using separate ginger and garlic.

Ginger garlic paste combines the flavors of both ingredients into a convenient, ready-to-use form. Using ginger garlic paste can save time and effort in meal preparation, especially when you want to add both ginger and garlic flavors to a dish without the hassle of peeling, chopping, and grinding them separately. Just ensure to adjust the quantity of ginger garlic paste according to your taste preferences and the recipe's requirements.

How to tell if ginger garlic paste is bad?

You can tell if ginger garlic paste has gone bad by its appearance, smell, and taste. A good ginger garlic paste should have a bright ivory color, smell and taste of fresh ginger and garlic.

If the paste has developed any mold, or unusual discoloration, or if there are signs of spoilage such as a slimy texture, discard it. A foul or off-putting odor is another indicator that your paste is spoiled. Additionally, if the paste tastes sour or has an unpleasant flavor, it is likely no longer safe to consume.

How to make your own garlic paste?

Here is a easy garlic paste recipe: Start by peeling several cloves of garlic and chop them. Transfer the chopped garlic to a high-speed grinder, add oil, salt and grind until smooth. Add 1-2 teaspoons of water, if required. Transfer the paste to a clean, airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.

Homemade garlic paste serves as a convenient and flavorful ingredient in various dishes, adding depth and aroma to dishes ranging from sauces and marinades to soups and stir-fries.

What is ginger garlic paste?

Ginger garlic paste is a versatile culinary ingredient commonly used in various cuisines, particularly in Indian cooking.

It is a blend of fresh ginger root and garlic cloves that have been crushed or ground into a smooth paste-like consistency. Ginger garlic paste serves as a foundational element in many recipes, adding depth of flavor and complexity to dishes such as curries, marinades, stir-fries, and soups.

Made this recipe? I’d love to know what you think! Leave a ★★★★★ rating and a review below—it motivates me to create more great content for you. You can also connect with me on Facebook and Instagram. And don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter, where I share free recipes, tips, and more!

📖 Recipe

Homemade ginger garlic paste placed in a white round bowl which is placed on a black board and with garlic cloves and ginger pieces on the side.
Padma Kumar

Homemade Ginger Garlic Paste Recipe (Lasts for weeks!)

5 from 33 votes
Prepare this ginger garlic paste ahead of time as part of your meal-prepping routine for hassle-free cooking. Store it in the refrigerator and add it to your dishes for an instant flavor boost.
Refer to the section above for tips on making it last longer without turning green. Additionally, check the section above for ideas on how to use this ginger garlic paste in your cooking.
Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Pureeing time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 10 minutes mins
Servings: 7
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Sauces and Purees
Calories: 28

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Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients  

  • 2-3 inches (~30g) fresh ginger
  • 7-10 cloves (~30g) garlic
  • 2 teaspoons neutral oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon water

Equipment

  • 1 high speed blender
  • 1 glass jar with a lid

Instructions
 

Prep the ginger and garlic
  • Wash and pat dry the ginger. Chop into small pieces. Peel the garlic and chop them.
    The smaller your ginger and garlic pieces are, the faster they will grind to a smooth paste.
  • Place the chopped ginger and garlic in a blender jar. Add the water, oil, and salt. Grind to a smooth, lump-free puree.
    2-3 inches (~30g) fresh ginger, 7-10 cloves (~30g) garlic, 2 teaspoons neutral oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon water
  • Store it in a clean glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.

Nutrition

Calories: 28kcal | Carbohydrates: 1.6g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 2.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Sodium: 387mg | Potassium: 17mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Calcium: 8mg
Disclosure

The nutritional information is calculated using an online calculator and is based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionists' advice. Changing the quantities and cooking technique will alter the nutritional calculations.

Notes

Allergen-free labels: This recipe is free from gluten, grains, nuts, soy, and dairy.
Ratio of ginger and garlic: I prefer a 1:1 ratio, meaning equal quantities of ginger and garlic. You can adjust the amounts of either to suit your preference. For instance, if you prefer less garlic, feel free to reduce the garlic quantity and increase the ginger, or vice versa.
Yield: These measurements will yield approximately ⅓ cup (about 70 grams) of paste.
Ginger: I do not peel it, but you can, if you prefer. The easiest method is to scrape the skin with a spoon.
Scaling the recipe

Alternative quantities provided in the recipe card are for 1x only.

Allergens Disclaimer

Our content aims to be informative and educational, but it should not replace professional medical advice. Since manufacturing processes can vary and cross-contamination is possible, it's essential to verify product labels and allergen information. Make sure all ingredients align with your specific allergies. As readers, you bear the responsibility for ensuring allergen safety when buying or consuming foods.

Made this recipe? Tag me

@mygoodfoodworld to tell me how it was

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Amy says

    May 20, 2024 at 11:36 pm

    5 stars
    Very convenient to have on hand, and a wonderful way to use up my extra ginger and garlic before they go bad.

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      May 29, 2024 at 5:23 pm

      Oh yes, such a savior!

      Reply
  2. Sharon says

    May 13, 2024 at 4:32 am

    This is a great way to preserve the last bits of ginger and/or garlic before they go bad!

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      May 18, 2024 at 3:52 pm

      yes, and so handy!

      Reply
  3. bunfuns says

    May 13, 2024 at 3:11 am

    5 stars
    I always cook with garlic and ginger, maybe i'll make this in big batches. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      May 18, 2024 at 3:53 pm

      You are welcome! This will be a game changer, for sure 🙂

      Reply
  4. bunfuns says

    May 11, 2024 at 8:57 pm

    5 stars
    I would like to try this recipe soon. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  5. Debbie says

    May 11, 2024 at 8:05 pm

    5 stars
    Great recipe for garlic ginger paste. Thank you for the easy to follow instructions to make it at home.

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      May 18, 2024 at 3:53 pm

      Thank you for your feedback Debbie.

      Reply
  6. Amber says

    May 11, 2024 at 7:30 pm

    5 stars
    Great idea! We use so much of this in our home kitchen. I'm so trying this! Love the idea without all those gunky preservatives.

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      May 18, 2024 at 3:54 pm

      Thank you Amber, the fresh taste of it is just amazing!

      Reply
  7. Devaki says

    June 15, 2022 at 11:24 pm

    Bless you Padma for this saviour of a recipe! Makes cooking so easy!

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      June 16, 2022 at 2:04 pm

      Thank you so much Devaki.

      Reply
5 from 33 votes (28 ratings without comment)

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Hi, I'm Padma! I am a passionate cook and can cook through any mood! My cooking is all about simple, healthy meals made with fresh ingredients and with a lot of love. As a mum and an early childhood educator, I deeply care about raising healthy eaters.

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