Aniseroot (Osmorhiza longistylis) Recipes

Aniseroot Custard (Woodland-Style Dessert)

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • 1/3 cup sugar

  • 3 egg yolks

  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh aniseroot (or 1 tsp dried)

  • Pinch of salt

 

Instructions:

 

  1. Heat milk and aniseroot in a saucepan over medium-low heat; do not boil.

  2. In a bowl, whisk sugar, egg yolks, and salt.

  3. Slowly temper the eggs by whisking in hot milk bit by bit.

  4. Return to the saucepan and cook gently until it thickens.

  5. Strain and chill before serving.

 

Elegant and earthy — excellent with wild berries or elderflower garnish.

  

Aniseroot-Infused Syrup (for cocktails, desserts)

 

Ingredients:

 

  • 1 cup water

  • 1 cup sugar

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh aniseroot (or 1 tbsp dried)

 

Instructions:

 

  1. Bring water and sugar to a boil in a saucepan.

  2. Add the aniseroot and reduce heat; simmer gently for 10–15 minutes.

  3. Remove from heat and let steep another 15–30 minutes.

  4. Strain and bottle.

 

Use in cocktails (like gin fizzes), drizzle over ice cream, or mix into lemonade for a sweet twist.

 

Aniseroot Shortbread Cookies

 

Ingredients:

 

  • 1 cup butter, softened

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 2 cups flour

  • 1–2 tsp finely grated fresh aniseroot

  • Pinch of salt

 

Instructions:

 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Cream butter and sugar until smooth.

  3. Stir in grated aniseroot and flour until just combined.

  4. Press into a pan or roll and cut shapes.

  5. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until lightly golden.

 

The subtle anise flavor gives a wild, fragrant twist to a classic cookie.

 

Aniseroot Tea (Simple Herbal Infusion)

 

Ingredients:

 

  • 1 tsp dried or fresh chopped aniseroot

  • 1 cup boiling water

  • Optional: honey or lemon

 

Instructions:

 

  1. Place the chopped root in a teacup or small pot.

  2. Pour boiling water over it.

  3. Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.

  4. Strain and sweeten with honey or add lemon if desired.

 

Use for calming digestion, mild coughs, or just as a fragrant woodland-inspired tea.

 

Aniseroot Root Sugar

Grind dried aniseroot into a fine powder and mix with sugar (1:10 ratio) to create a wildcrafted flavored sugar. Sprinkle over oatmeal, add to baking, or rim cocktail glasses.