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Juniperus communis
Juniper

Related species:
Savin
Prickly juniper
Eastern red cedar

Oil from unripe juniper berries is used to massage rheumatic parts of the body. Ripe berries are added as a flavouring in drinks such as gin, and meat dishes, particularly game. The wood of stems and roots is burned to smoke preserved meats.

Juniper is a coniferous shrub or tree and prefers well-drained soil in an open position. It can be propagated from seed, or from cuttings taken in autumn.

Chicken with Sloe Gin and Juniper

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons sunflower oil
8 chicken breast fillets
12 ounces carrots, cooked
1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed
1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
¼ cup chicken stock
¼ cup red wine
¼ cup sloe gin
1 teaspoon crushed juniper berries
salt
pepper
bunch of basil to garnish

Method:
Melt the butter and oil in a pan and sauté the chicken breast fillets until browned. Remove from the heat and arrange the chicken in a clean pan.

Combine all the other ingredients (except the basil) in a food processor and blend until smooth. If the mixture appears too thick, add a little more red wine or water. Pour the sauce over the top of the chicken breasts, bring to the boil over a medium heat, and simmer gently for approximately 10 minutes. Adjust the seasoning to suit, and serve garnished with chopped fresh basil.

Juniper...