In a medium-sized pot bring, 2 cups of water and 2 cups of sugar to a boil. When boiling, add the ginger and reduce heat to a simmer for 45 minutes..

Place a colander over a bowl and drain the mixture. Reserve the syrup for other uses.

Place a cooling rack over a sheet of parchment paper. Add the remaining ½ cup of sugar into a medium, clean bowl and toss softened ginger in the sugar. Place the sugar-covered ginger on the cooling rack. Let dry overnight, then place in an airtight container.