Cookbook:Liquorice

Liquorice
CategoryHerbs and spices

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Liquorice or Licorice is a spice derived from Glycyrrhiza glabra. It smells somewhat like star anise, fennel and anise. In Nigeria, it is referred to as 'oburunbebe' or 'banga stick'.

Characteristics

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The root, or stick, of the licorice plant is thick and woody. It has a similar flavor profile to anise and fennel.

Derivatives

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Liquorice flavour is most commonly available as a liquid extract. The extract is produced by boiling liquorice root, then evaporating most of the water to leave a sweet syrup. The extract is widely used to make confectionery, especially black liquorice candies and liquorice allsorts.

Uses

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Liquorice is also used in Chinese cooking, in broths and in foods simmered with soy sauce. It can also be prepared as a tea.

Liquorice increases blood pressure, is an expectorant (cough remedy), and acts as a mild laxative.

References

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