Juniper Berries

Juniper berries

Juniper berries are the ripe cones of Juniperus communis ‚ one of the most widely distributed conifers in the Northern Hemisphere. They have been used as both a culinary spice and medicinal herb by cultures across Europe and North America for centuries and are the dominant botanical flavor in gin worldwide.

The botanical that gives gin its defining piney character, juniper berries bring that same resinous complexity to game meats, Nordic cooking, and aromatic brines ‚ a spice that announces exactly where it's been.

Crush berries with the flat of a knife before using ‚ the essential oils are sealed inside until pressure breaks the skin.Rub crushed juniper over venison, duck, and game birds before roasting to add complexity and reduce gaminess.Add whole to marinades, brines, and braising liquids for a piney, resinous backdrop in long-cooked preparations.