Juniper berries grow on evergreen trees or shrubs in the wild. The tree grows on poor rocky and sandy soil and can be up to 10 meters high. The berries have a woody, bittersweet smell and a slightly spicy, refreshing taste. Juniper is one of the few spices that grow in cold areas.
The origin of the spice lies in areas in northern Europe and the Alpine region. Italy and Macedonia currently produce the best varieties.
Juniper is one of the few spices that grow in cold areas. The origin of the spice lies in areas in northern Europe and the Alpine region. Italy and Macedonia currently produce the best varieties. The further south the juniper berries grow, the more essential oils they contain and the stronger they taste. Juniper berries from regions with colder climates contain more resin and have a sharper taste. Verstegen only supplies the very best quality herbs and spices. Verstegen juniper comes from Macedonia.
Juniper berries grow on evergreen trees or shrubs in the wild. The tree grows on poor rocky and sandy soil and can be up to 10 meters high. Juniper bushes have yellow flowers and green flowers on separate plants. The yellow flowers grow on ‘male plants’ and the green flowers on ‘female plants’. The juniper berry is blue violet and ripens after 2 years. Juniper berries are not actually berries, but they are dried, ripe catkins. The berries have a woody, bittersweet smell and a slightly spicy, refreshing taste.
Juniper berries are traditionally used in Central European cuisine, such as in sauerkraut, stews, the preparation of game dishes and the seasoning of marinades, sauce, ragout, pâté and poultry. Juniper berries are also used to flavour various liqueurs. For example, for the aromatization of gin and Bénédictine.
