Generally, you should not use soft ginger. Softness in ginger is a tell-tale sign that it's no longer fresh and has likely gone bad.
Here's a breakdown of why and what to look for:
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Texture is Key: Fresh ginger should be firm to the touch. If it's soft or mushy, it indicates degradation.
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Visual Signs of Spoilage: Besides a soft texture, other signs that ginger has gone bad include:
- Blemishes or mold on the exterior.
- Mold on cut ends.
- A discolored interior (dark yellow, brown, or gray) when sliced.
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Why Avoid Soft Ginger?: Soft ginger may have lost its flavor and aroma, and its texture will be unpleasant. More importantly, it could harbor mold or bacteria that could make you sick.
Therefore, if your ginger is soft, it's best to discard it and purchase fresh ginger for your recipes.
