Crystallized Ginger

1) Place ginger in large saucepan and cover with water 2) Set aside to soak overnight 3) Drain ginger 4) Cover with fresh water, bring to a boil over high heat 5) Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes 6) Repeat this 3 times 7) Leaving ginger in the colander, add sugar and 2 cups water to the pan 8) Heat to dissolve sugar, then add ginger 9) Return to a boil, simmer 10 minutes 10) Remove pot from heat, cover and let it set for at least 2 hours or overnight 11) Bring syrup to a boil 12) Simmer until syrup is completely absorbed and the ginger slices are translucent 13) (This takes 40-70 minutes) 14) Stir occasionally, then constantly for the final few minutes 15) Cool ginger in a single layer on waxed paper 16) Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 year