Juniper berries harvested from wild Eastern Red Cedars. Don't let the "Cedar" part of it's name fool you, these are actually a species from the Juniperus genus- (Juniperus virginiana), and are credited with being more flavorful than the Common Juniper. The "berries" (technically a modified cone) have a number of uses. Their flavor profile is complex with a base flavor of pine and accompanying notes of fruit, sweetness, and medicinal bitterness. They can be used to make- teas rich in Vitamin C and Antioxidants, marinades and rubs for red meat and fish, simple syrups for cocktails, pickling, and curing spices. They make wonderful additions to slaw, sausages, and desserts as well. And, for any soap-makers out there, juniper berries can be added to cold process soap as an exfoliant.

Eastern Red Cedar is a widespread species here in the Midwest. It is native but far out of it's usually range because of lack of regular woodland and prairie fires. Because of this they can be found competing with native prairie and forest plants. Removing the "berries" by foraging reduces the amount of seeds that would otherwise germinate and out-compete these more favored natives. For this reason I recommend any berries or leftover plant material to be thrown away rather than composted to avoid germinating the seeds.

It is advised not to consume excessive amounts of Juniper Berries in a short time as they can cause adverse health effects. Rinse before use.