WHOLE JUNIPER BERRIES

Juniper berries are the fruits of juniper, a needle-like plant native to the northern hemisphere, which loves cold climates.
The cultivation of juniper, precisely for this reason, takes place above all in northern Europe and in Trentino Alto Adige, both for food use and for ornamental purposes.
Dried juniper berries are a typical spice of northern Europe, but now used almost everywhere, which goes very well especially with main courses.
The berries have a penetrating aroma similar to that of pine, because they contain turpentine and juniper has an aromatic and intense flavor.
The whole blue berries (which you can find at Roma Fine Foods) are the most prized.
Juniper is mainly used to flavor game, especially wild boar.
Juniper berries can be used whole or crushed before use.