Juniper Berry

A cypress native to the British Isles and commonly grown in northern Europe, the evergreen juniper tree produces small purplish blue berries that have a resinous flavour. Juniper berries are used quite specifically in the cuisine of northern Europe, in marinades and pâtés, with pork, game meats and poultry, and, notably, in German sauerkraut. But perhaps juniper berries are best known for the flavour and aroma they give to gin. To release their flavour, lightly crush juniper berries in a mortar and pestle or grind them in a mill. Juniper berries are believed to improve blood circulation. Available: widely.