Spice
Juniper Berry
Juniper berries are the resinous cones of Juniperus communis, used to flavour game, sauerkraut, marinades, and gin. Piney, peppery, and slightly citrus, they are usually lightly crushed before cooking. Not a true berry botanically. Use sparingly—aroma is strong.
Also known as: Wacholder, Ginepro
Explore further
Breeds, cuts & preparations
Variety
Common JuniperEuropean JuniperItalian JuniperJuniperus communisMacedonian Juniper
Source
Indoor FarmedOutdoor FarmedWild
Provenance
BiodynamicExport GradeFair TradeHand HarvestedNon-GMOOrganicPesticide FreeSingle OriginSun Dried
Preparation
CrackedDriedFreshGroundPowderRoastedToastedWhole
CommonCharacteristic
AromaticCitrusFreshPepperyPineyResinousSharpWoody
History
Northern European and Mediterranean peoples used juniper as a meat and ferment seasoning.
NL
Genever and later gin made juniper the defining botanical of a global spirit category.
DE
German and Alpine cookery fixed juniper with cabbage, pork, and game.
Dried juniper berries became a standard European pantry spice worldwide.