Juniper, also known as Mountain Berry and Hackmatack, is an evergreen
shrub found throughout the northern hemisphere. The wood of this small
tree has been used for centuries to smoke meat and fish, while the
round, aromatic berries, which are actually cones, have been used to
flavor stuffing, gravies, pickled fish and game meats. Juniper berry is
also a flavoring agent in gin.
Powdered juniper berry is also used in cooking, generally to lend
background flavor to foods and beverages. Due to the resinous nature and
strong flavor of the berries, exercise moderation when using this herb.
One way to balance flavors nicely is to combine juniper berry powder
with
sea salt and/or
ground black pepper to use as seasoning.
