What herb tastes like liquorice?

If you happen to be among the group of people who cannot stand the taste or smell of liquorice, then we apologize because this article is not for you! But if you love all things liquorice and are curious about other herbs that carry a similar flavor, look no further. In this article we will delve into some fantastic herbs with an anise-like aroma.

Meet The Anis Family

Anise (Pimpinella anisum)belongs to the Umbelliferae family along with fennel, coriander, cumin and caraway. These plants share common characteristics such as their umbrella-shaped flowers and feathery leaves but most importantly they have a unique aromatic property produced by their essential oils.

Enter Anethole

The principal aromatic compound that contributes to the flavor of these plants is called anethole (trans-anethole). This molecule is composed of two phenol rings separated by a double bond and found in varying concentrations across each plant species.

Fun fact 1: Did you know that pure trans-anethole is clear like water? Its pleasant odor lasts long after its spicy taste has subsided.

Fading Memories Of Sambuca And Ouzo

Most people associate classic liquors such as sambuca and ouzo with liquorice because of their strong presence being primarily composed of star annise, green anise seeds or sometimes even dill oil. Interestingly though scientists have revealed thymus Vulgaris L essential neat oil also contains high quantities from up 80% till above 90 % ANISALDEHYDE which explains why it can offer olfactory experiences resembling french pastries without necessarily producing licoricy overtone- worth trying out while baking patties or cakes!

Back To Our Main Question – What Herbs Taste Like Liquorice?

Here’s a list of some delightful herbs that carry a liquorice-like flavor:

  • Basil
  • Tarragon
  • Sweet Cicely
  • Thai basil
  • Agastache Mexicana

That’s right! Who would have thought that the ever-popular basil can mimic the flavor of licorice with its blend of sweet and spicy characters? Whereas tarragon, also known as Estragon or little dragon in French, has an intense aroma containing a high amount of Anethole; makes it another great pick for those looking to savor this unique taste.

Sweet cicely (Myrrhis odorata) is a favorite among chefs because it lives up to its name – sweet! This gentle perennial herb has delicate fern-like leaves and soft pink flowers creating perfect candied flavors when mixed into salads.

Fun Fact 2: Combined with vinegar brewed from malted barley grains ,Sweet cicely yields “molasses de Bretagne” literally translated as molasses from Brittany deserves greater recognition than often noted yet comes with numerous culinary uses.

Thai Basil or Horopa( Ocimum sanctum ) on other end brings unmistakable essence popular across so many asian countries majorily used in currys soups stews seafood dishes like phad kra pao .An added benefit; use Thai basil while cooking aids digestion & may relieve nausea symptoms.

Agastache Mexicana known as Toronjil Cimmaron mainly grows in mexico belongs just similar plant family hyssop /minty characteristics making botanists classify agaphatoideae native belong long line ayurvedic remedies which prescribes chanrasmriti”scent of honey.”

How About Licorice Root ?

Apart form having enchanting scientific name Glycyrrhiza glabra root species does share distinct similarities too not only by being good substitute but hence used abundantly in herbal medicine for ages .

In conclusion, If you love the taste of licorice and want to explore more with it, now you know there are many options . The next time you’re looking for that unmistakable anise-flavored herb or plant, go ahead and indulge in some basil, tarragon or sweet cicely. Or try something new like Agastache Mexicana- who knows maybe it could become your new favorite!

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