Licorice is one of the most popular candies in the Netherlands and has been eaten for hundreds of years. But how is this treat actually made? In this article, we explain the process from seed to licorice step by step.
Step 1: Planting licorice
The first step in making licorice is planting licorice root, the main flavoring in licorice. Licorice is harvested from the roots of the licorice plant , which grows best in warm, humid climates and can reach up to 1 meter in height.
Step 2: Harvest and wash
After about 3 years, the roots can be harvested. The roots are pulled out of the ground and washed thoroughly to remove sand and dirt.
Step 3: Cooking and pureeing
The washed roots are cut into pieces and boiled in water. This releases the licorice flavor and creates a thick, syrupy liquid. This liquid is pureed and cut into small cubes.
Step 4: Making the licorice dough
To make the licorice dough, ingredients such as sugar, wheat flour, and gelatin are added. Ammonium chloride is added for the typical salty taste.
Step 5: Adding the licorice extract
The licorice extract is added to the dough. This gives the licorice candy its characteristic flavor.
Step 6: Shaping and cutting
The licorice dough is mechanically formed into small candies or other shapes. Afterwards, the candies are cut to size.
Step 7: Drying and packaging
After shaping and cutting, the liquorice candies are dried in a drying chamber or in the open air. As soon as the liquorice candies are dry, they are packaged and ready to enjoy.
Conclusion
Making licorice is a meticulous artisanal process, from planting the licorice root to drying and packaging the candies. By carrying out this process precisely, the characteristic taste of licorice is preserved.
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