Licorice Candy:

The Sweet World of Licorice Candy: Everything You Need to Know

Licorice treats have been loved by countless people for centuries. The sweet chews are available in many forms with fruit flavors, but many people do still have a fondness for class licorice. This article sets aside all the information, ranging from its origins to its various types, health benefits, and how to enjoy it!

Licorice candy has the ‘gotta-have’ taste to it. It is different from other sweets as it is made out of a plant’s stalk in the Pyracantha family. The stalk is processed and put together with sugar, syrup, and other ingredients to produce its distinct taste and chewyness which makes it that beloved.

Licorice was first adopted due to its medicinal properties, and slowly over time evolved into one of the most loved candies of all time.

Varieties of Licorice Candy

Licorice candy can be differentiated based on the ingredients used in them. Here are the most popular types:

1. Black Licorice Candy

This type is the original form of licorice candy which comes with a peculiar sweet and bitter taste. Black licorice candy is produced by the extract of the licorice root which gives it its dark shade. Its taste is easily recognizable. It’s famously known for being a love-it-or-hate-it flavor, but black licorice certainly has its passionate fans.

1. Red Licorice Candy

Despite what its name suggest, red licorice has no semblance to actual licorice extract, but it does get its base flavor from strawberry, cherry, or raspberry. Compared to the black counterpart, it’s much sweeter and more fruity. A lot of people suggest it to those who like sweet treats.

1. Licorice Twists And Pipes

Twists and pipes are two well known shapes of candy. The twist is nothing else but long, braided strands of licorice. The pipe takes the shape of a small smoking pipe. These candies can be bought in black, red or in both colors. They are very enjoyable to consume because of their fun shape and the tenderness of licorice.

1. Licorice Jelly Beans

These jelly beans are like candy in the form of licorice. They come with a soft center and the exterior is coated in sugar. The licorice jelly beans come in a range of flavors but true licorice lovers prefer the black jelly bean.

Health Benefits of Licorice Candy

While candy is especially loved by kiddoes, jelly licorice can help in some ways if eaten judiciously. The following are some advantages of licorice rope.

1. Digestive Health

Licorice root is popular as a medicine for aiding digestion. It eases the stomach and helps alleviate heartburn, nausea, and other digestive troubles. Some people also take licorice for stomach ulcers, but it is best to speak with a professional before using it for medicinal reasons.

1. Boosts Immune System

Some studies suggest that licorice root has antiviral and antimicrobial effects that can help the body ward off infection and illness, allowing it to become a more potent immune booster.

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties

Licorice might be able to lessen inflammation within the body because of its anti-inflammatory mechanisms. This will be helpful to people who have arthritis or sore muscles.

1. Improves Skin Health

The extract of licorice is a popular ingredient in skincare products because of its ability to reduce inflammation, dark spots and improve skin overall. Some people like eating licorice candy for the possible skin benefits that it offers.

Note on Moderation

Licorice does have its health benefits but should be consumed in moderation. Consuming excessive amounts of licorice candy, particularly black licorice, can present health problems, including elevated blood pressure and reduced potassium levels. It is advisable for individuals with such conditions to seek medical advice.

Where to Buy Licorice Candy

You can find licorice candy in nearly every grocery store, candy shop and online store. Some of the ideal locations for purchasing licorice are listed below:

Supermarkets: 

Most major supermarket chains stock both black and red licorice candies. The items are located in the candy aisle.

Specialty Stores:

 Candy shops, especially those featuring retro or foreign confections, may have a large assortment of licorice sweets.

Online Retailers:

 Amazon and Walmart and specialty candy shops usually have a large supply of various types of licorice, including lesser known brands from other countries.

How to Enjoy Licorice Candy

Licorice candy is more than a treat— there are various ways to enjoy it. Here are some suggestions:

1. As Part of Cakes and Other Sweets

Licorice candy works wonderfully as a baking ingredient. Try using small pieces of black or red licorice in your cookie or cake dough to add flavor to these! There’s also the option of simplifying it by melting the candy and pouring it over ice cream or other desserts.

1. Licorice Soda And Other Beverages

Licorice candy is a popular option to add in certain drinks. You can prepare licorice tea or try infusing soda with licorice to add a different flavor.

1. Nuts And Chocolate Coated Licorice

For those who enjoy a touch of both sweet and salty, licorice candy pairs well with some dark chocolate and roasted nuts. The bitterness from the licorice balances nicely with the sweet chocolate providing an indulgent experience.

Summary

Candy lovers from every corner of the globe seem to enjoy licorice candy. It doesn’t matter if you love black or red, there is something for everyone. Along with the interesting flavor comes some possible health advantages, although it is critical to note that it should be consumed with some restraint. Hence, whether you are munching licorice jelly beans, licorice twists, or using them in a dessert, there is no doubt that licorice candy is entertaining and creative.