JUNIPER
(Juniperus communis)
Juniper dates back to the biblical times when it was aid that the Juniper tress was a place of refuge. It was also said that in the middle ages branches of the tree were over doors for protection against witches and evil.
Juniper is one of my favorite spices with is strong aroma and intensity in flavor it can lift any sweet or savory dish.
It is an evergreen coniferous tree that is part of the cypress family. It has both male and female counterparts which mean that they must be cultivated close together for the berries to form.
As we all know juniper berries are the main ingredient in gin production therefore as a berry is crushed the initial aroma is of gin and the same goes for eating raw gin berry.
Juniper pairs exceptionally well with game birds, game meat, rabbit and even lamb. Its also widely used in the flavoring of pates, terrines and spreads.
It can be used to marinate meat and also ground up in salt is fantastic for flavoring dishes.
Juniper is used in the treatment of gastronomic complications and rheumatism, its also a powerful antiseptic and is good for blood circulation.
