Galangal

Known as laos (Indonesian), lengkuas (Malaysian), kah (Thai), isen, or galingale. It is sometimes called Java root or Siamese ginger. Galangal is a fresh root (a rhizome of a Zinginber species) that resembles fresh ginger root, but has a thinner, translucent, striped skin. Often, it has pink shoots. Its texture is tougher and its flavor is more citrusyand more astringent than ginger. It is always used in cooked dishes and never eaten raw. If you can't find it, ginger is an adequate substitute.