Galangal, Laos (Indonesian) (Alpinia galanga)

Also known as Siamese Ginger because it is a member of the ginger family. This strange-looking rhizome is a light yellow root with pink sprouts and knobs. In Indonesia it is called Laos and this is thought by the Thai to be the correct foreign name. Because there is no common, current English name, Laos is frequently used in terminology and labeling. Galangal was generally used in England and Europe in the Middle Ages. It was known as Galingale. Galingale was regarded as an aphrodisiac, but its use mysteriously died out, thus the confusion about an English equivalent. It is now grown and used in Southeast Asia and Iran. The Thai consider ka a digestive stimulant apart from its common use as a spice. They mix the grated root with lime juice as a remedy for stomachaches. The dried root is sold whole or powdered in Oriental specialty shops in the United States. Some recipes call for the use of the whole root, sliced. A few recipes reconstitute the whole root with hot water and slice or pound it. If using powdered for whole; ¼" slice equals 1 teaspoon ground.