Galangal is a root spice commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine. It belongs to the ginger family and has a unique flavor and aroma. Galangal has a pungent and slightly spicy taste with hints of citrus and pine. It is often described as being more aromatic and earthy compared to ginger. Galangal is used as a key ingredient in many dishes, including curries, soups, stir-fries, and marinades. It is usually sliced, grated, or pounded before being added to recipes. Apart from its culinary uses, galangal is also believed to have medicinal properties and is used in traditional herbal medicine for various purposes.