Ginger is the rhizome (not the root) of the Zingiber plant and originated in Asia. It is now grown throughout Southeast Asia, India, West Africa and the Carribbean. Australian ginger is generally grown in the Sunshine Coast, Queensland and harvested in summer. When buying fresh ginger, it should be aromatic and plump with smooth skin. I find the best way to store it is in a slightly damp paper towel in the fridge. This will avoid it from drying out, however if not used within 1-2 weeks, it will develop mould. To keep it longer, peel it when fresh and store in a jar of sherry.
