zi2 goeng1子薑子姜
Jyutpingzi2 goeng1
Yalejí gēung
Definition
Young ginger; tender ginger.
colloquialfood
How it's used
子薑 refers specifically to the tender, immature rhizome of the ginger plant which has a thin, pale skin and a milder, less fibrous texture than mature ginger. It is highly prized in Cantonese cuisine for its ability to be eaten raw or pickled, unlike regular ginger which is primarily used as a pungent aromatic for cooking. You will most frequently encounter it served as a side dish or appetizer in restaurants.
Measure word
gau6嚿gauhExamples
This young ginger is very crisp.
Do you like eating pickled young ginger?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 老薑, which is the mature, woody ginger used for stir-frying or boiling soups. Using 子薑 in a long-simmered soup is a waste of its delicate texture and subtle flavor.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
