Licorice sticks

What is licorice on a stick?

Licorice, licorice, we hear both versions, let's take a moment to explain the difference. Generally speaking, we use the feminine to talk about the tree and the masculine to talk about the by-products, especially candies. Licorice, therefore, is a plant that bears the scientific name of Glycyrrhiza glabra, "glucus" meaning sweet or sweetened in Greek and "rhidza" root. Like many spices and herbs, liquorice has been used since ancient times, and the Greeks and Romans were very fond of it. It was then used in particular to quench thirst, which was very practical during the military campaigns of the time. It is also in China and Egypt that liquorice was consumed, it was attributed medicinal properties. It was not until the 18th century that an English pharmacist, George Dunhill, discovered the gustatory properties of liquorice. He simply added sugar and thus made the first licorice confectionery, the beginning of a great love affair with consumers. It was only a century later that French confectioners decided to use liquorice, and the famous Zan brand was registered in 1884. A century later, Ricqlès-Zan merged with Haribo, known for its famous Rotellas and Car en Sac. Here, I offer liquorice in its pure form, the licorice stick that comes to us from Turkey.

What is the flavour of the licorice stick?

Licorice offers a particular flavor, there is rarely any half measure with it, we either love it or hate it. The licorice stick brings freshness and aniseed notes both sweet and bitter.

Harvesting licorice sticks

Liquorice is mainly grown in Mediterranean countries. Here, this plant finds a favourable climate between heat and humidity. The licorice stick, or licorice wood, is none other than the root of this plant. The secondary plants are usually used without touching the main plants. It is a game of patience, you have to wait 4 years after planting before you can get this stick. When the plant dies out, in the fall, the licorice stick is harvested and dried to be eaten as we know it. However, it can also be eaten fresh.

How do you use licorice sticks?

First of all, the licorice stick can be eaten alone by chewing it. Beyond the gustatory pleasure it brings, it has been known for many years to accompany smokers in withdrawal. But there are many other ways to enjoy the inimitable taste of your licorice stick, throughout the meal and, of course, as an infusion.

Our recipe ideas with licorice sticks

The starter : Scallops with liquorice

This menu starts very well with the exceptional product that is scallops and in a surprising way. Pan-fry the scallops in butter and olive oil and fry fennel and carrots and sprinkle them with grated liquorice.

The dish: veal stir-fry with liquorice

Who hasn't tasted a delicious veal stir-fry? It is one of the traditional French dishes, and it is a pure delight. But what if you brought a little exoticism to it? I simply suggest that you slip some licorice powder, which you get by crushing your licorice stick, into your creamy sauce.

Dessert: licorice crème brûlée

Crème brulée is the dessert that melts in your mouth and brings a taste pleasure that you never get tired of. This time, I suggest you add a little licorice. Infuse a stick of liquorice when cooking your milk, your dessert will be revolutionized.

The health benefits of licorice sticks

Much more than a pleasure food, the licorice stick is recognized for its various virtues. It acts effectively against digestive disorders, an infusion in the evening will allow you to avoid heartburn and sleep better. According to certain studies, liquorice also cures colds and acts favourably on the respiratory tract. Licorice is also listed in the French Codex, the list of medicines used by pharmacists. As a cream, it fights eczema and psoriasis, but also against itching. As I mentioned earlier, the licorice stick is used to stop smoking. This substitute replaces the gesture of the smoker and fights against stress. Note that abusive consumption of licorice is not recommended. It presents risks in terms of blood pressure. Licorice consumption is not compatible with liver problems, high blood pressure or kidney failure.

Preservation of licorice sticks

Licorice sticks should preferably be stored away from moisture and light.