The Palodúz or Regaliz root is a natural treasure full of flavor and health benefits, but how can you get the most out of it? If you have found a licorice root and don't know how to peel it, don't worry, you're in the right place! Here we share two easy and effective techniques to peel licorice root without wasting any of the product.
If you are not yet familiar with this ingredient, I invite you to read our article on what licorice is and how to consume it to get a more complete idea of this wonderful product.
Necessary Tools
Before you start peeling, make sure you have the following tools:
- One or more licorice roots (dried or fresh, as you prefer).
- A sharp knife or scraper .
- A stable surface to work on, such as a cutting board.
It is crucial to work with a sharp knife to avoid accidents and ensure that the process is safe and effective.
Technique 1: Scraping the Licorice Root
This is a quick and easy technique that you can use with either fresh or dried licorice . Follow these steps:
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Hold the root by the tip. Leave the tip free to have better control while working.
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Knife scraping : Using the edge of your knife, scrape off the outer skin of the licorice root. The skin is thick and easy to remove, but there may be some small pieces of licorice left attached.
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Remove hard parts : If there are any hard-to-scrape bits, cut off any pieces that weren't cleaned properly with the scraper.
Extra tip: If the root is very dry, it is advisable to soak it in water for a few minutes to soften it a little before starting to scrape.
Technique 2: Cut into Sections
For those who prefer a more precise and controlled approach, this technique can be ideal, especially if you want to obtain smaller sections to use in recipes or infusions.
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Cut the root into small pieces : Use the knife to cut the root into more manageable sections, which will make peeling easier.
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Carefully remove the skin : You can use the knife to cut the skin off of each section, removing the tough parts of the root.
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Remove any unwanted pieces : If after cutting the root you have any pieces of skin or remains of the outer part, simply remove them with the knife.
Additional tip : If you decide to use this technique with dried licorice, keep in mind that it may be more difficult to peel the root, so it is best to soak it in water first.
How to Eat Licorice Stick After Peeling It?
Once you've peeled the licorice root, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to help you get the most out of this natural ingredient:
- Infusion : Cut the peeled root into small pieces and prepare it in a relaxing infusion . Combine with honey , lemon , or ginger to give it an extra touch.
- In recipes : If you are a cooking lover, you can add it to desserts , sauces or even smoothies for a unique flavor.
- Chewing the root directly : If you prefer to enjoy licorice more directly, simply chew or suck on the peeled root.
Benefits of Licorice Stick
Not only is licorice stick delicious, it also offers health benefits . Some of the most notable ones include:
- Anti-inflammatory properties : Helps reduce inflammation and digestive discomfort.
- Cough and Cold Relief : Traditionally, it has been used to relieve respiratory symptoms.
- Improves digestion : Facilitates the digestive process and promotes intestinal well-being.
It is important to remember that although licorice has many benefits, its consumption should be moderate, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.
