Galangal

Galangal is a rhizomatous spice belonging to the Zingiberaceae family, which also includes ginger and turmeric. Native to Southeast Asia, galangal is a common ingredient in Thai, Indonesian, and Malaysian cuisine. It has a sharp, citrusy flavor with hints of pine and is more pungent and peppery than ginger. Besides its culinary uses, galangal is also valued for its medicinal properties, being used in traditional remedies for digestive issues, inflammation, and infections. The root is typically used in various dishes, such as curries, soups, and stir-fries.