Juniper berries

Juniper berries are the small aromatic fruits of the Juniperus communis shrub, characterized by their dark blue or black color and their strong, resinous, and slightly sweet flavor. These berries are primarily used as a seasoning in cooking to add a fresh, slightly bitter, and very distinctive touch to various dishes, especially in preparations of red meat, game, stews, and marinades. They are also an essential ingredient in the production of beverages like gin.

The origin of juniper berries is found in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America. Historically, they have been used both in gastronomy and in traditional medicine for their digestive and antioxidant properties.

Among their properties, their ability to aid in the digestion of heavy meals, especially in dishes rich in fats, stands out. Furthermore, they possess compounds with antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. It is important to use them in moderation due to their intensity and potential toxicity in large quantities.

In the context of Hispanic American cuisine, juniper berries may be found under synonyms such as juniper or, on occasion, simply as juniper berries. Although they are not a very common ingredient in all regions, their use in traditional European preparations has influenced some Latin American recipes, especially in areas with European culinary influence.