Juniper Berry

Juniper berries are the small, dark blue-purple, seed cones of the juniper shrub, most famously known as the key flavoring in gin. These aromatic berries impart a distinctive, piney, slightly citrusy flavor with hints of pepper and resin, adding a refreshing depth to both savory and sweet dishes. Commonly used in European cuisines, especially in Scandinavian and German recipes, juniper berries pair exceptionally well with game meats such as venison, duck, and wild boar, as well as with pork, lamb, and hearty vegetables like cabbage and potatoes. When used in cooking, they are often lightly crushed to release their essential oils, infusing dishes with their unique, woodsy aroma. Juniper berries are also valued for their digestive properties and have a long history in herbal and medicinal traditions. A little goes a long way, so use them sparingly to avoid overpowering your dish.

Juniper berries can typically be found in the spice aisle of most grocery stores, often shelved alongside other whole spices like cloves, allspice, and peppercorns. They are usually sold in small glass jars or spice containers, since only a small amount is needed for most recipes. If your regular supermarket doesn’t have them, specialty food stores, natural food markets, or gourmet shops often carry juniper berries, especially those with a wide selection of international or European spices. Some stores also stock them in the bulk section, where dried herbs and spices are available by weight. If you’re having trouble locating juniper berries in-store, don’t hesitate to ask an employee for assistance, or check the store’s online inventory. Additionally, juniper berries are readily available from online spice retailers if you prefer shopping from home.