Ginger connection

I`ve been drinking about three cups of ginger tea every day for many years. It always reminds me of Ms. Paek, who lived with my family for over 14 years. Ms. Paek lost her husband during the Korean War. She came to Seoul from North Korea to live with her children. She gave the children up for adoption since she could not support them. Despite her valiant battle with cancer, she passed away last year. I will never forget her. She was a very wise lady and was like a mother to me.

I have a sensitive stomach, and I always used to let her know when I felt a little nauseous. She said, "Don`t worry, I will make you ginger tea with jujubes to make you feel better." From that day on, I swore by ginger tea made with fresh ginger.

Culinary uses of ginger

Ginger is used in many dishes for its pungent flavor. In India and Asia, fresh ginger is used to spice up sauces and stir-fried dishes. Ginger is also used to make candy and as a flavoring for cookies, crackers and cake. It is used in ginger ale, ginger beer and ginger-flavored liqueur, called canton, which is made in China.

Ginger contains many antioxidants that may prevent cancer. Ginger has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It helps in preventing and decreasing the duration of the common cold, headaches and menstrual cramps. It is associated with lowering cholesterol and preventing blood from clotting.

Gingered chicken a la fresh vegetables

About 4 small servings

-Two boneless chicken breasts

-1/3 cup fresh ginger, peeled and chopped

8 cloves garlic, chopped

-1/4 cup butter

-2 cup tomatoes chopped

-3 cup fresh spinach

-1 cup yogurt

Pepper to taste

Cut chicken breast into strips. Place ginger, garlic and butter in a bowl and blend together until well combined. Place over chicken breast to marinate for about 30 minutes. Heat frying pan for a minute, and add the chicken and marinade. Cook on high heat until the chicken is lightly brown. Add tomatoes and spinach, cook until spinach wilts. Add the yogurt and cook until combined. Add pepper to taste. Serve over white rice.

(samiamounts@yahoo.com)