Juniper berries

Description

Juniper berries are small, round berries with an intense, dark blue-purple color and a resinous, musky aroma that combines pine, citrus, and peppery notes. They have a sharp and aromatic taste with a slight bitterness, which is why they are used sparingly as a spice that adds depth to dishes. Nutritionally, the berries provide few calories but are a source of fiber, vitamin C, and phenolic compounds and essential oils with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; they have traditionally been used as a digestive aid and have a mild diuretic effect. In the kitchen, they work well crushed in meat dishes (game, pork, lamb), in marinades, sauces, pickles, and as a key flavor in gin. To preserve their aroma, store the berries whole in an airtight, dry container in a cool, dark place; grind them just before use to maintain their intensity.