Food Lens · Snacks
Licorice
Sweet and herbal with a distinct anise-like flavor, in black licorice specifically.
Lens analyzedLicorice candy is a chewy confection flavored with licorice root extract or, in many North American versions, anise instead, giving it a distinct sweet, herbal flavor. Black licorice uses the traditional root flavor, while red 'licorice' is usually just a fruit-flavored candy in a similar twisted or ropey shape. Texture ranges from soft and chewy to firmer, depending on the recipe.
Where it comes from
Licorice root has flavored candies across Europe and Asia since ancient times, eventually shaping into the twisted candy ropes familiar in North America and Europe today. Countries differ sharply in how strong they like their licorice, with Nordic and Dutch versions often far more intensely flavored than the milder North American style.
Buying it
Check whether a product uses real licorice root flavor or is simply anise-flavored, since the taste differs. Red licorice is typically fruit-flavored rather than true licorice at all, despite the shared name and shape.
Storing it
Store licorice sealed in the pantry, where it stays good for about eight months.
Keeps about 8 months in the pantry.
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Checked for each member
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What it costs near you
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Your household memory
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