Licorice Syrup: A natural way to ease cold and flu symptoms

Winter weather brings its share of colds and flu. Instead of reaching for medicine, try some licorice syrup to ease your symptoms. For centuries, licorice has been used to tame coughs and ease sore throats and lung congestion. Here's a simple recipe for licorice syrup (from Growing & Using Healing Herbs by Gaea and Shandor Weiss):

Fill a glass or enamel container with pieces of fresh or dried licorice root (you can buy licorice root here). Cover the roots with water and simmer for three to four hours. Strain and discard the roots. Add 2 tablespoons honey for each cup of syrup. (The honey acts as a preservative.) Pour the syrup into a sterilized bottle with a tight lid. Use a teaspoon of licorice syrup every few hours as needed for sore throat, cough and lung congestion.

Food Network Magazine Puts Lincoln's Licorice on the Map

What do these cities have in common: Perryville, MO; Lincoln, NE; Portland, OR; Knoxville, TN; Austin, TX?

Answer: They are cities where you can shop at an "extreme specialty store" for food lovers. And they are featured in the December 2009 issue of Food Network Magazine. So what kinds of obsessions to they specialize in?

Sausage (Stonie's Sausage Shop, Perryville, MO)
Licorice (Licorice International, Lincoln, NE)
Salt (The Meadow, Portland, OR)
Mushrooms (Everything Mushrooms, Knoxville, TN)
Hot Sauce (Tears of Joy Hot Sauce Shop, Austin, TX)

Customers are always amazed when they step into Licorice International, located in the Historic Haymarket District in Lincoln, Nebraska. "Your store really is what it says it is," they usually remark. "It really sells only licorice."

But when you have 160 different kinds of licorice from 14 countries, what more do you need?

Although visiting Licorice International is a little like heaven for licorice lovers (the licorice ladies are happy to feed you as many free samples as you want), you don't need to plan a trip to Lincoln to enjoy gourmet licorice. You can get that same great experience (well, maybe without the free samples) by visiting http://www.licoriceinternational.com/

Gourmet Licorice Makes a Great Christmas Gift

You can still order great gourmet licorice from Licorice International for Christmas. Choose 3-day shipping to guarantee Christmas delivery on orders placed by Monday, December 21.

Click here to order

Also, you can get free shipping on orders over $100.

Click here for more details on free shipping.

Licorice Liqueur Recipe: Licorice Root and Time

Licorice Liqueur takes a while to make, but the results are worth it. Although some recipes use anise, only real licorice root gives the liqueur that authentic licorice taste. You can purchase licorice root here.

Ingredients
2 1/2 tablespoons licorice root, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups vodka
1/2 cup sugar syrup

Wash the licorice root and chop into small pieces. Add to vodka and let stand for one week. Strain and filter. Add sugar syrup* and let stand for another week. Ready to serve. Yield: one pint.

*To make sugar syrup dissolve one pound of sugar in four cups of water and bring to a boi. Cool before using. Yield: 7 cups.

NOTE: Elizabeth Erlandson, one of the "Licorice Ladies" who own Licorice International, recently discussed licorice liqueur with Judy Gilliard on the "Judy a la Carte" program on KFOR radio in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Gifts Under $30: Licorice and More

Are you looking for a great gift for under $30? Here are some ideas from Licorice International:

• Gourmet Licorice Sampler. Everyone likes a special treat. The samplers each contain four varieties of licorice. The International Sampler and Mini International Sampler feature the most popular kinds of licorice from Australia, Finland, England and Germany. I love the Dutch Sampler with its sweet licorice from the country known for the tasty treat (which they call "drop"). You can also choose from two Australian samplers (Australian Party Platter or Mini Australian Sampler), the American Favorites Sampler (some colorful treats, pictured at the left) and even a Sugar-Free or Salty Sampler. For those who prefer red licorice, try one of the red samplers or red and black samplers.
  


• Candy Dish: These hand-made candy dishes were created to fit one package of licorice from Licorice International. A candy dish plus a package or two of your favorite licorice make a nice gift. Each dish is a one-of-a-kind work of art and comes in a gift box. Choose black, blue or white.


• Licorice Puzzle: Puzzles are great to share with others and help pass the time on cold winter evenings. The All Sorts of Goodness puzzle was created especially for Licorice International and offers a fun challenge.


• A Gift Certificate to Licorice International: Let your friends and family choose their favorite kinds of licorice or a gift from Licorice International.

For the complete list of gift ideas, click here:

Free Licorice Spice Tea

Ah, there's nothing like hot tea on a cold winter evening.  One of my favorite herbal teas is Licorice Spice Tea.  There's something about that combination of licorice root and comforting spices (cinnamon, organge peel, Chinese star anise, vanilla flavor, sarsaparilla, orange, clove and cardamom flavors: a delightful combination).

I'm surprised at how sweet this tea is, even without sugar.  It makes a healthy, relaxing treat. Licorice spice tea always makes me feel better. And now I know why. Research shows that licorice root tea has special compounds that act as natural antidepressants. Women's World magazine (October 26, 2009) reports that licorice tea can raise energy, calm stress, and improve immunity! I've always known it soothes a sore throat.

Now you can sample this treat for free when you place an order with Licorice International. Sample teabags (2) are shipped to the same location as the shipping address. If you send a gift, the gift recipient receives the sample package.

For more info on this special offer, click here:

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Licorice Lady Featured on KZUM's Blog Talk Live

On December 1, 2009, Elizabeth Erlandson, co-owner of Licorice International, was featured on Lincoln's KZUM radio station's "Blog Talk Live," a program highlighting individuals who make Lincoln, Nebraska, a great place to live. When you hear Dennis Kornbluh's lively interview with Elizabeth, you'll understand why she and her business partner, Ardith Stuertz, are so enthusiastic about licorice.

You'll also learn fun facts about licorice, such as:

• What country eats the most licorice
• What's the most popular licorice that Licorice International sells
• Several ways licorice is sweetened
• The many tastes and textures of licorice
• Why licorice is different from other candy

To listen to the interview, click here.

(Be patient; the audio may take a little while to download.)


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Licorice Lover Blog Wins Foodie Blog Giveaway

We've just been informed that our blog has won the Foodie Blog's "update your profile for a chance to win" giveaway.  We'll receive a Food Blog mug. Licorice International will receive a free Foodie Blog mug.

For more info about the contest, click on the icon. 



Thanks, Foodie Blog!

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Fun for the Holidays: Licorice Allsorts Puzzle

There's something about a jigsaw puzzle that promotes togetherness, conversation and relaxation. In our family, we like to keep a puzzle out on holidays, especially Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's, when the weather is too cold to get outside much. We got a head start this year by trying out the latest puzzle from Licorice International. Called "All Sorts of Goodness," this puzzle has some easy parts to get you started, but provides plenty of challenge to keep you busy for a long time. The colorful Licorice Allsorts are perfect. Plus, it's fun to munch on Licorice Allsorts while putting the puzzle together.

Right now you can get the puzzle for $3.00 off (a special pre-Holiday price.) For a fun gift idea, combine the puzzle (available here) and a couple packages of Licorice Allsorts. A popular British treat, Licorice Allsorts have been around since 1899 and have a sweet, mild licorice flavor that will appeal to anyone, not just licorice lovers. You can get either the original Bassett's (available here) or RJ's from New Zealand (available here).

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Blogger eats her words after a visit to Lincoln, Nebraska (including a stop at Licorice International)

Avid blogger Liz von Achen (known for her humorous blog "Singing  Toes") previously blogged that she thought Nebraska smelled like cow dung. But after a day trip to Lincoln, she developed a new appreciation for Nebraska's "fertile aroma."

While strolling through Lincoln's Historic Haymarket in search of an authentic Nebraska hamburger, she noticed the sign for Licorice International and decided to stop and check out the retail store. Here's what she had to say about her visit:

Upon entering, I was warmly greeted by co-owner Elizabeth, who immediately offered tasty samplings of traditional red and black licorice pieces. She then gave a tour of the shop and invited me to sample as many gourmet licorice flavors as I’d like.

Licorice International Inc. offers more than 160 types of licorice from 14 countries, the largest selection of black licorice, gourmet licorice and European licorice available in the United States. Elizabeth described the company’s roots as a mail order business started by a NYC confectioner named Larry Ring. When Elizabeth and her partner Ardith purchased the company in 2002, they developed the http://www.licoriceinternational.com/ website, and began fulfilling orders from their homes. Growth of the business led them to rent a facility for processing internet and mail orders, which then led to its current 4,450 square foot retail shop in Lincoln’s historic Haymarket district.

I sampled and purchased several gourmet twist flavors among many; cinnamon, orange, green apple, grape. As well as soothing licorice spice tea, and some anise mints from France.

Upon hearing of my cross-country road trip and plans to blog, Elizabeth graciously offered to take a photo of me with my camera, explaining that if I sent my photo to their site, they would post it, and share a link. Elizabeth and Ardith also conferred and directed me on my burger-quest to Lazlo’s.

Later, I reflected upon my visit to the lovely licorice shop. I must say, I was somewhat taken aback by just how pleasant Elizabeth and Ardith were to meet. Their earnest kindness and hospitality seemed quite unnecessary; they had me at "free samples."

So did Liz ever find her burger?  What else did she see in Lincoln? You can read her entire blog post about her visit here.

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Get 10% Off Licorice Thru November 30th

Licorice International is having a site wide sale. From now through November 30, get 10 percent off all products from their website.  No promotional code needed for this special offer.  Visit http://www.licoriceinternational.com/ to take advantage of this offer.  Gourmet licorice and other specialty candies available from Licorice International make great Christmas gifts.

Beat the H1N1 Flu Naturally - Licorice and Other Cures

Are you looking for a natural way to beat the flu?  Try licorice!  That's right.  According to an on-line article, licorice root has a list of benefits a mile long.  The article states, "it has anti-inflammatory properties, and has been reported to be useful for colds, flus, coughs, viral infections, sore throats, and more. Apparently, licorice root boots the body's natural level of interferon, which helps fight off viruses. In addition, licorice root is known to calm respiratory irritation and inflammation, and eases chest congestion and coughing."

You can get benefit from any licorice candies that contain real licorice (not just anise). Check the ingredients list on the licorice treats at Licorice International.  You can also buy real licorice root here.

Click here for the entire article about natural cures for the flu.

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Troops Overseas Say, "Thanks for the Licorice!"

Something as simple as a licorice candy twist can make a soldier's day. Licorice International sponsors "Treats for the Troops," a program where you can purchase a package of licorice candy twists, which is sent to a chaplain overseas, who then distributes it to the men and women serving our country.

Here are some quotes from the chaplains who recently received their packages of licorice:

"We look forward to opening packages like these, ones sent with love and thoughtfulness. It brings a special joy to the day, knowing that friends and family back home are supporting us and thinking of us."

"Even something as simple as a pack of gum or a piece of their favorite candy can remind a person of what life is like Stateside and who they are over here serving. "

"Your gift is an encouragement to myself and our soldiers. It is through reminders like this that our soldiers are reminded that people back home do remember us."

" Many on the ship right now are enjoying the blessing. . . I've never had so many of the flavors of the licorice you sent and now I've discovered many new flavors that I now enjoy."

Click here to see more quotes.

You can still participate in "Treats for the Troops."  For more info, click here.

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Handmade candy dish makes a great gift (and perfect for licorice too)

These handmade kiln-formed glass creations are amazing.  My daughter and I recently stopped by the Licorice International retail store and took a look at several dishes on display.  We loved the way the bubbles and sparkles catch the light, giving each unique dish different highlights every time you looked at it.

These one-of-a-kind works of art make great gifts. They're useful for holding candles, flowers, glass beads, stones, or just as a handy "catch-all" around the house.  And licorice would look great in them: red licorice for Christmas or black licorice for a classy touch any time (try Creamy Licorice Toffee or Kookaburra Black Twists). For something different, try colorful Licorice Allsorts or their new Sour Stars.

Each dish comes in a beautiful gift box. To purchase the dishes, click here.

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Get 10 Percent off Your Next Licorice Order

Now through November 14 you can get 10 percent off your order at Licorice International.  Just use the promotional code FALL10 when you order.  Enjoy!

Check out the new products here.

Broadway Rolls are back!

Who remembers Broadway Rolls from the 60s? Perhaps you called them Danish Ribbons or Delfa Rolls. Half the fun was eating these long ribbons of red or black licorice.

If you've been searching for these tasty ribbons of candy, I have good news: They're back!  And now you can try one free.

If you place an on-line or phone order with Licorice International by November 30th, you'll receive TWO free Broadway Rolls: one black licorice and one strawberry flavored. Your two free rolls will be shipped in the same package as your order.

Click here for more information on this offer.

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Just found some other Licorice (Liquorice) Lovers

I just found a couple of Licorice Lovers on-line.  Actually, I should spell that with the British spelling--Liquorice--in this case. Two great writers--Mini Olen and Denni--contribute to this blog, which focuses specifically on salty licorice.  Check it out here.


Many people love salty licorice even better than traditional sweet licorice. Licorice International sells 24 kinds of salty licorice available here.

Gluten Free Licorice

Many people need to eliminate gluten from their diet because of Celiac disease or other medical conditions. But being gluten free doesn't mean giving up licorice!  Licorice International offers nearly 50 gluten free treats, from traditional black licorice to mints to the ever popular licorice toffee. 

Click here to see the variety of gluten free candy available.

And just in time for Halloween, the great folks at Gluten Free TV posted a review of four great-tasting Licorice International products: Licorice Babies, Cherry Chews, Red Scotties and Sour Stars.

To see the review of gluten free licorice products, fast forward the video to 4:40.  Enjoy!




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Chocolate spider cakes

Here's another great idea for Halloween: Chocolate Spider Cakes. The recipe comes from Europe, so you may need to modify it slightly. Be sure to use self-rising flour.  You would use about one and a fourth cups to equal 150 grams. If you don't have any available, just use regular flour and add a half a teaspoon salt and one and a half teaspoons baking powder.

You can find the complete recipe here.

You can find Licorice Allsorts here and Black Licorice Laces here.

Happy baking!

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Licorice in Fondue

I just discovered another great use for licorice: Fondue. Simply mix 5 ounces of dark chocolate, 4 ounces black licorice, and 2 tablespoons kirsch or any type of brandy. Melt slowly and serve in a warmer or fondue pot. Dip fruit, cookies, or pound cake into the fondue.

What a great way to add a unique taste to your fondue, and not just at Halloween!

I would recommend using a sweet, soft licorice, such as Finnish Black Tire Tread or Australian Kookaburra Black Twists, Pontefract Cakes, Soft Licorice Drops from Holland, or any of the sweet licorice at Licorice International.

Cute "Mice" cakes decorated with Licorice

I discovered another use for those ever-handy licorice laces: Cute mice cakes. Because of the unique combination of pumpkin, maple syrup and German chocolate, it makes a great fall treat, if you want to serve something a little less scary-looking than typical Halloween fare. Perfect for a "harvest party," kids birthday party or game night. You can even add a whimsical touch to your Thanksgiving celebration. You can find the complete recipe and directions here.

If you can't find black food coloring, you can make the mice pure white and use bits of licorice laces for the eyes, nose and mouth.

Licorice Laces are available from Licorice International Just click on the word licorice laces to go directly to the page. These tasty treats are made with real licorice root and come from Finland, where licorice is especially popular.

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Haymarket Neighborhood Wins Award

The Licorice International retail store is located in Lincoln's historic Haymarket neighborhood, a destination spot for restaurants, unique shops and the local farmers' market. We Lincolnites know it's a pretty special place. It's a relaxed kind of place, but at the same time has a unique energy that can't be found anywhere else in town.

Now the area has received national recognition.  The American Planning Association announced recently that the Haymarket was named one of the 10 great neighborhoods for 2009, noting the city's commitment to preserving the historic buildings. The Haymarket is the first Nebraska neighborhood to make the list.  To read the entire article, click here.

Congratulations Haymarket!  It's a great place to call home.

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Visit to Farmers Market Includes Stop at Licorice International

Recently Gail Prather from Hastings, Nebraska, came to Lincoln to attend the weekly farmer's market.  She loved the many vendors at the market and enjoyed learning about the Historic Haymarket area, where the market is held.  A highlight of her trip was a stop at Licorice International's retail store. While not a part of the farmer's market, the store is located just around the corner and is a favorite destination for both local and out-of-town guests.

Here's what Gail had to say about Licorice International:

While we were in downtown Lincoln we decided to visit Licorice International. Oh, was that fun!


Licorice in every size, shape and flavor you could ever dream of from all over the world. We came home with a Black Licorice Bridge Mix and an Australian Licorice that was wonderful. We also sampled some others that were just as good. A very fun side trip.

Her post includes some great historical information about the Haymarket District (ever wonder where it got its name?).  You can read the entire post here.

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Free Licorice Drops

Now THIS is real licorice: Soft Licorice Drops from Holland. If you want to try some FREE, just place an internet order of any size with Licorice International, and you will recieve a package (10 pieces) of Soft Licorice Drops absolutely free. You'll see why these soft, flavorful drops are a favorite of the Dutch.

Click here for details.

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Licorice Ideas for Halloween

It's time to start thinking about Halloween. Don't forget to include lots of black licorice in your Halloween plans. I have some great ideas about how to use licorice from Licorice International.

Black Licorice Laces from Holland taste great, and you can use them to decorate Halloween cakes, cookies and homemade candy. Use them for spiders' legs, black cat whiskers or wherever your imagination takes you.

Speaking of black cats, Licorice International sells a couple kinds of black licorice in the shape of cats. Licorice Cats from Holland are firm, sweet, and have a strong licorice flavor. For something different, I love Katjes Kinder (kittens) from Germany. These tiny cats are firm and not as chewy as most licorice, which makes the sweet taste of licorice last a long time. You can serve Licorice Cats or Katjes Kinder in a Halloween bowl at your Halloween party, or you may use the cute candies to decorate licorice cakes or cookies.

Halloween is a great time to introduce the neighborhood kids to the great taste of licorice. Some of them may be hesitant to try black licorice, but once they've tried real black licorice, they usually are hooked. I recommend giving out some Creamy Licorice Toffee from Ireland along with your other treats. The candies are individually wrapped in silver and black (which looks a little spooky for Halloween), and because of the toffee taste and chewy texture, even many "licorice haters" find they love this toffee.

Do you have any ideas about how to incorporate licorice into your Halloween fun? Share them with us in a comment.

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Licorice Fan Finds Heaven

This licorice fan recently visited Licorice International's retail store in Lincoln, Nebraska.  Wow! Bin after bin of real licorice from all over the world - and she could sample any of them that she wished.  Her comment after leaving the store:

"Is this heaven?"

Licorice All Sorts Ice Cream

Here's another great recipe for Licorice Ice Cream.  This one uses Licorice All Sorts.  You can find the recipe here.

The recipe is from Europe, so you may not be familiar with the measurements and ingredients. Here are some hints for substitution:

Caster sugar is a very fine sugar. You can use "superfine" sugar or simply run regular sugar through a food processor (let the dust settle before opening.)

Simbuca is an Italian anise-flavored liqueur. If you can't find it, you may substitute 2 teaspoons anise extract for the 2 tablespoons Sambuca.

Here are the conversions of the measurements:

300 ml (milk or cream) = 1 1/4 cups

200 g. sugar = 1 cup

You can buy Licorice AllSorts at Licorice International (click here for the direct link to Allsorts).  Either kind will work for this recipe.  One-half pound equals about 225 grams.  A half a package of RJ's Allsorts equals the amount used in the recipe.

Licorice Allsorts come in fun shapes and colors that are fun to serve guests.  So you may want to buy a few extra bags.

Enjoy!

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Yum! Licorice Chunk Ice Cream!

If you like homemade ice cream (and licorice), you'll LOVE this recipe for Licorice Chunk Ice Cream.  Be sure to follow the recipe exactly.  Egg yolks MUST be cooked before putting in the ice cream freezer.  Get ready for a sweet, creamy licorice treat!

Click here for the recipe.

Where the recipe calls for "Licorice Whips," we recommend using Licorice Laces from Holland, available from Licorice International.  They're great plain or in recipes and are made with licorice root for that "real licorice" flavor.  You can get a 4-ounce package here or a 2-pound bag here.

Enjoy!

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Good and Plenty Licorice Commercial from the 1950s

They just don't make television commercials like they used to. No hype, no false claims, just fun. And often a cute jingle to help you remember.

Here's a commercial for Good and Plenty, a long-time licorice favorite:




Licorice International sells this traditional favorite, and it's always fresh. You never know what you're going to find at the grocery store. You can choose a 1/2 pound bag or a 5 pound bag. Or try our Licorice Tunnel Mix or American Favorites Sampler, which feature Good and Plenty along with other traditional American licorice treats.

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Licorice Helpful in Treating SARS

Good news. A compound found in licorice root may be helpful in treating SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome), which has caused many deaths in Asia. Scientists have experimented with glycyrrhizin, which is found in licorice root. Of the five compounds they tested, the glycyrrhizin was the most effective. It stops the virus from making copies of itself and also keeps the body from absorbing the virus.

More info here:

http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Research/Liquorice-plant-may-offer-SARS-treatment

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Licorice Delight Cake

Wow - A wedding cake decorated with licorice! Now that's a treat for licorice lovers (pun intended).

The black licorice laces (available here) add an elegant--yet whimsical--touch to this five-tiered cake. The laces are attached with a "paste" made of corn syrup and water, lightly brushed on with a fine-tipped natural bristle paintbrush. This cake would be great for an anniversary or graduation party as well.

You can find the recipe and directions here.

Licorice Lovers IQ Test

Licorice Lovers IQ Test » Make Your Own Quiz

Free Licorice from Germany

I love the giveaway at Licorice International this month -- a free sample package of Euro Lakritz licorice from Germany with any order. These soft coins with a deep licorice flavor each represent one of the countries in the European Common Market. Fun and yummy at the same time!

Click here for details.

Plus, you get free shipping on orders of $35 or more. Click here for info on free shipping.

Drop: A personal story by a Dutch licorice lover

Ever wonder why Licorice International sells so much licorice from Holland? Reason: The Dutch LOVE licorice, which they call "drop." They consume nearly 64 million pounds of licorice each year. Here's a personal story from a Dutch licorice lover:

http://www.experienceproject.com/stories/Like-Black-Liquorice/678385

You can see a selection of Dutch licorice here. Can't decide on which kind to buy? Try a Dutch Sampler.

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How they make licorice

I've always wondered how licorice is made. It turns out that candy manufacturers use two methods to create licorice. Smaller companies cook the ingredients together (such as sugar and licorice extract) and pour it into molds that are filled with corn starch. The corn starch makes it easy to remove the finished candy. Larger companies use the licorice rope extrusion process, in which a mixture of licorice root extract is boiled to an exact temperature, at which time colors and flavors are added and the mixture is cooked slowly until it has the consistency of dough. The mixture is then passed through an extruder, where the dough is forced out of tiny holes and forms long ropes. These ropes are then cut into pieces.

In both cases, special care is taken to cook the licorice mixture at just the right temperature and for a specific amount of time to ensure the desired consistency and taste. And remember, real licorice contains licorice root as one of the ingredients. You can choose from lots of different kinds of licorice at www.licoriceinternational.com

New Study Shows that Licorice Reduces Body Fat

Here's yet another reason to love licorice: It can help reduce body fat. A recent study in Osaka, Japan, tested 84 moderately obese participants who were divided into four groups. One received a placebo,while the other three received varying amounts of Licorice Flavanoid Oil. After eight weeks, all the groups receiving the Licorice Flavanoid Oil had a significant reduction in total body fat mass. In addition, the group receiving the most Licorice Flavanoid Oil had a significant decrease in visceral fat area, body weight, BMI, and LDL cholesterol.

For more info, click here.

Licorice Lover is a Top 100 Candy Blog

This blog, Licorice Lover, was chosen as one of the top 100 candy blogs by the Daily Reviewer. Thanks to all of you who read and comment. We're making the news!

For more info on the Daily Reviewer, click here.

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Get 10% Off Licorice Thru August 31st

It's late August: Time for a Licorice Treat

Now you can receive a 10% discount when you place an order of any size by August 31, 2009 at Licorice International. (www.licoriceinternational.com) Discount will be applied to the total merchandise amount and is not applied to shipping. Use promotional Code AG10 in the promotional field online at checkout.

Offer cannot be combined with other offers or to existing orders; expires on August 31,2009.

Yummy Cable Car Line

Do you remember the famous cable car scene from the James Bond movie "Moonraker"? Remember how easily the villain "Jaws" bites the cable car line. The secret? The line was actually made of licorice. The best tasting cable car line ever.

Take a look at the scene here:



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Candy of the Stars

What do the following celebrities have in common:

Brad Pitt

Lindsay Lohan

Anne Hathaway

Madonna

Kevin Spacey

TV chef Heston Blumenthal

For a clue, see the picture. Yep, that's right. They'are all fans of Panda Licorice. Panda Licorice, made in Finland, appeals to those who love whole foods. It contains only four ingredients: molasses, wheat flour, licorice extract, and aniseed oil. That's it: four ingredients you might find in your own kitchen. This is a non-fat treat you can feel good about eating.

You can buy Panda Licorice Bars or Panda Licorice Chews through Licorice International.

Fun Fact: Panda Licorice is so named because Pandas love to eat licorice root.

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Free Red and Black Licorice Piglets this Month

These red and black licorice piglets are not only adorable, they're some of the best licorice you've ever tasted.

Now you can get a free sample with any order from Licorice International.

A sample package will be shipped automatically with each order placed with Licorice International during the month of August.

Bet you can't eat just a handful!

For complete info, click here.

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Licorice Festival at Pontefract a Success

Imagine a festival celebrating licorice! It would be heaven for licorice lovers. On July 12 of this year, thousands of people turned out in Pontefract, England, for their annual Licorice Festival. (That's "Liquorice Festival" to the Brits.)

Pontefract farmers first started growing licorice in a small field in 1730, and now the quaint cobblestoned town is dubbed the "Liquorice Capital of the Word." The Liquorice Festival celebrates with live entertainment, vendors, tours of the historic castle, licorice-themed food and of course, lots of yummy licorice to sample and buy.

At this year's festival, you could make a licorice mosaic, watch Maypole dancers, learn about licorice workers through the years, and watch the Urban Angels Aerial Acrobats. You could also choose from licorice sausages, licorice pies, licorice ale, pot grown licorice plants, and plenty of licorice candy, including the colorful Licorice Allsorts, a popular treat in the UK.

Here's a video from a past Liquorice Festival:



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Eat Licorice, Find Something From Nebraska

Are you planning a visit to Lincoln, Nebraska? Licorice International is becoming a favorite stop for Lincoln visitors. And right next door you can pick up a souvenir to remind you of your visit to Nebraska.

“From Nebraska” features the finest products made in Nebraska, starting with foods grown and manufactured in our great state. You can choose from popcorn, sausage, jellies, seasonings, and the ever-popular Baker’s Chocolates and Dorothy Lynch salad dressing, which the store ships all over the world. Can’t decide on one item? Pick up a gift basket featuring several of the most popular foods.

You can find wine from 15 of Nebraska’s 24 vineyards. Stop by any time for a private wine tasting, or come for Saturday Sippings, the second Saturday of the month from 4-7 p.m., featuring a different local winery each month.

The store also sells homemade soaps and candles, Nebraska souvenirs and clothing. The book section includes books about Nebraska and by Nebraska authors.

Located at 803 Q Street, right next to Licorice International, the store is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays, and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays. For more info see http://www.fromne.com/

Licorice Race

Two sisters have a licorice race. Hilarious!


Sibling licorice battle from Joel on Vimeo.
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Australia: Land of Licorice

"The Candied Life" blog recently posted a review of licorice made in Australia, comparing it to Twizzlers. Their verdict? Once you've tried real licorice made in Australia, you won't want to go back to Twizzlers. Licorice made in Australia "tastes like the flavor it announces, not a ghostly hint of that flavor amidst a mouthful of wax. The licorice is the star, not the medium."

Read the entire post here.

You can choose from 15 different kinds of Australian Licorice at Licorice International, including the popular Kookaburra Black Twists. See all the varieties of Australian licorice here.

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Soldiers are requesting licorice

Celebrity Chef Emeril Lagasse recently visited a military base to film a TV special. In a follow-up interview he was asked what non-perishable food items he would recommend that family and friends send to military people. One of the things he suggested was licorice. Here's what he said:

Q: What non-perishable food items would you recommend that family and friends send to military people?

A: I just shipped a box [recently] to a couple of friends and it was simple stuff … a lot of my spices, which is what they wanted, a few jars of my pasta sauce, licorice — believe it or not, red and black licorice was one of the big requests — and hard candies. Bags of them, because that’s what they miss.

(Read the full interview here .)

You can share licorice with our troops through Licorice International's "Treats for the Troops" program. You can purchase either a 12-pound box of Licorice Candy Twists (approximately 500 twists) or an 8-pound box of Licorice Candy Twists (approximately 350 twists). Licorice International will ship the box to a chaplain who will distribute the candy to men and women serving our country.

Click here for more information about this great program.

Chew on This: Free Licorice XyliChew Gum All This Month!

Here's a tasty way to cleaner teeth: Chew XyliChew Chewing Gum! A dentist quoted in this month's issue of Readers Digest suggests that people chew six or seven pieces of xylitol gum every day to keep cavities away.

Xylitol, a natural sweetener found in licorice, has been proven to help fight cavities and is endorsed by six national dentist organizations. Click here to read more about the benefits of this amazing substance.

Now you can try a free pack of XyliChew Chewing Gum made with xylitol. Place any on-line order with Licorice International, and you will receive a free full-size package of XyliChew Chewing Gum (value $1.75). The gum will automatically be included with your order. This offer is good through the end of July 2009.

Click here for more info on this offer.

Flag Cake Made from Licorice Candy Twists

Here's a great way to decorate a cake for the Fourth of July: Make a flag out of Kenny's Licorice Candy Twists.

To make the flag I simply used Red Raspberry and Pina Colada for the stripes and Blue Raspberry for the star field.

Fourteen flavors of Licorice Candy Twists are available from Licorice International.

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Free Shipping on Licorice Orders

Cool!

Now you can get free shipping on orders of $35 or more at Licorice International. Click here for details.

If you're like me, you always need to have several kinds of licorice on hand, for some low-fat healthy snacking. It's a good time to stock up on licorice for the rest of the summer.

Too cute! Hello Kitty cake made from licorice

Licorice lover Stacey Walsh visited the Licorice International retail store in Lincoln, Nebraska, recently, and found just what she needed to maker her daughter's birthday special. Here's what she has to say:

"I was in the Lincoln store a few weeks ago to pick up some black licorice jelly beans and some black licorice laces to decorate my daughter's 2nd birthday cake. I'm so happy I found what I needed. I made a Hello Kitty cake for her. My daughter Johanna went straight for the jelly bean eyes. I'm still enjoying the black licorice jelly beans. Thanks."

If you don't live in Lincoln, visit the Licorice International website for all your licorice supplies. You can find black licorice jelly beans here and black licorice laces here.

If you make a special cake using licorice, send your photo and story to us at licorice@oakviewresources.com and we might just add it to our blog.
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Licorice gargle helps post-op sore throat

Here's something interesting: A new study in the Journal Anesthesia & Analgesia reports that patients who gargle with a licorice solution before surgery have less incidents of post-operative sore throat or cough.

Here's a bit more about the study: http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/health-and-fitness/2009/06/post-op-sore-throat-try-a-lico.html

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Take Licorice on Vacation

Getting ready for a road trip? Licorice makes the perfect snack. It doesn't melt like chocolate. And it even helps settle your stomach on those long car rides. Not sure which licorice to pack? The bright colors of Licorice Allsorts will perk up those weary travelers. You can also pack a licorice sampler, or choose from one of Licorice International's best sellers, shown here.

Going on a hike? Make your own trail mix, using nuts, dried fruit and licorice. Cut up your favorite licorice or use a small licorice such as honey drops.

And, if you're like me, even what's supposed to be a relaxing vacation can often become stressful. I find a nice cup of Licorice Spice Tea to be a soothing way to relax and de-stress.

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Father's Day Idea

Your dad doesn't need another tie for Father's Day. And don't even think about socks.

Instead, why not get him something he'll enjoy all year: a membership in the licorice-of-the-month club! Each month he'll receive two regular size packages of licorice plus a sample product. He'll look forward to the surprise in his mailbox.

If you order now, a tin of black and red piglets will be included in your first order. Dad will love these fun little candies with the traditional taste, and he can reuse the tin to hold his treasures.

Click here for more information on the offer.

Licorice International on Wikipedia

Licorice International is now has an entry on Wikipedia. Check it out here.

And don't forget to click on the links to the right to find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

Free Licorice: Triple Treats from Holland

I love the giveaway this month at Licorice International: Three of my favorite kinds of licorice, all from Holland. Sweet little Kokindjes buttons are just the right size for a tasty treat. Beehive Honey licorice is made with 8 percent real honey. I love the the taste of these cute little candies. And the unique combination of black licorice and strawberries in the Black Strawberry licorice makes a tasty treat.

During the month of June you can get a free sampling of these three great Dutch licorice treats when you place an order with Licorice International.

Click here for complete info.

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Licorice Treats for Troops

Here's a way you can support our troops and let them know you care.

You can purchase either a 12-pound box of Licorice Candy Twists (approximately 500 twists) or an 8-pound box of Licorice Candy Twists (approximately 350 twists).

Licorice International will ship the box to a chaplain who will distribute the candy to men and women serving our country.

Click here for complete info.

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Licorice Candy Twists - Not just for licorice lovers!

A visit from our friend Aaron gave us the ideal opportunity to test out Kenny's Licorice Candy Twists. Everyone says these treats appeal to anyone, not just licorice lovers. Since Aaron is still not convinced about black licorice, we thought we'd see what he thought of these delectible candies.

Result? He loved them. His favorite was Pina Colada, although he liked the cinnamon too.

Pina Colada was my daughter Carmen's favorite (She's the one in the middle), while Monica and I liked the root beer the best.

With 14 flavors in all, you'll be sure to find a favorite too. Many of these reminded us of other favorite treats. Grape tastes like grape soda or jolly ranchers; chocolate is a bit like a Tootsie Roll; peach tastes like those yummy gummy peach rings; and orange reminds us of old-fashioned orange slice gumdrops. Cinnamon has a pleasant, not-too-hot taste.

A friend of mine gives Kenny's Candy Licorice Twists as high school graduation gifts. The package is a perfect size to go with a graduation card, and they're perfect for those late-night study sessions in college.

Click here to order these treats.

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