Yes, Humans Can Eat American Spicebush Berries
Foraging for wild edibles has seen a resurgence in popularity, and the American spicebush is a native gem often overlooked. All parts of the American spicebush (Lindera benzoin), including its small, red berries, twigs, and leaves, are edible and have been used for centuries. The key to enjoying this versatile wild food is a certainty in identification, as not all red berries in the forest are safe to consume. Once identified, however, the spicebush offers a vibrant and aromatic addition to the kitchen.
A Flavor Profile Worth Foraging
Unlike sweet, juicy berries, spicebush berries offer a complex, pungent, and peppery flavor profile that is best described as a combination of allspice, citrus zest, and pine resin. The flavor is concentrated and not meant to be eaten by the handful, but rather used as a seasoning.
- Ripe Red Berries: When the berries ripen in late summer to early fall, their flavor develops into a warm, allspice-like spice with peppery and citrus undertones. When dried and ground, they become a pungent spice for both sweet and savory dishes.
- Green Berries: Harvesting the berries when they are still green yields a spicier, more peppery flavor that can serve as a native black pepper substitute.
- Twigs and Leaves: The aromatic leaves and pliable twigs can also be used to create a refreshing, lemony, and cinnamon-like tea. Chewing on a small twig was a historical practice for quenching thirst during long walks.
Safe Identification is Paramount
Correctly identifying American spicebush is crucial to avoid mistakenly harvesting toxic lookalikes. While the plant is generally safe, consuming the berries of other species could lead to illness. Here's how to ensure you have the right plant:
- Distinctive Scent: The most reliable identifier. Crush a leaf, twig, or berry and smell for a strong, spicy, citrusy aroma.
- Alternate Leaf Arrangement: The smooth-edged, oval leaves are arranged alternately along the stem. Lookalikes like dogwood have opposite leaf arrangements.
- Berry Characteristics: The ripe red berries are oblong, glossy, and grow on individual stalks rather than in tight clusters.
- Habitat: American spicebush thrives in moist, rich soils in the understory of deciduous forests throughout eastern North America.
If in doubt, do not eat it. Always consult multiple authoritative sources and, if possible, an expert before consuming any wild plant.
Harvesting and Preserving Spicebush Berries
Harvesting spicebush berries is best done in early fall when they are a bright, shiny red. Remember that only female plants produce berries, so you may need to find several shrubs. A small handful is all that is needed for many recipes, and it's good practice to leave plenty for the wildlife that also relies on them.
- Drying: To dry, spread the berries on a tray in a cool, dark place. They will shrivel and darken over a few days.
- Freezing: Due to their high fat content, dried spicebush berries can go rancid. Storing them whole in the freezer after drying is recommended for long-term preservation.
- Grinding: For use as a spice, grind the berries fresh or from a frozen, dried state using a spice mill or coffee grinder.
American Spicebush vs. Allspice
While often used as an allspice substitute, American spicebush offers a distinct flavor. The table below highlights some key differences.
| Feature | American Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) | Allspice (Pimenta dioica) |
|---|---|---|
| Plant Type | Native North American deciduous shrub | Evergreen tree native to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America |
| Flavor Profile | Complex; hints of allspice, citrus zest, black pepper, and pine resin | A single spice with combined flavors of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg |
| Edible Parts | Berries, leaves, and twigs | Primarily the unripe, dried berries |
| Availability | Foraged in the wild or grown ornamentally | Widely available commercially as a dried spice |
| Harvest Method | Berries, leaves, and twigs are harvested from the shrub | Berries are harvested green and dried |
Historical and Nutritional Context
Historically, spicebush played a significant role in both the diet and health practices of Native Americans and early American settlers. It was recognized as a warming herb that could promote circulation and perspiration. A tea made from its parts was a popular household remedy for various ailments, earning it names like 'feverbush'. It was used to alleviate symptoms of colds, fevers, and digestive issues. During the Revolutionary War, it served as a coffee and allspice substitute when supplies were scarce.
While these historical uses are noteworthy, it's important to approach them with a modern perspective. The plant's high fat content in the berries contributes to its oil-rich spice, but specific nutritional data and scientifically-backed health benefits for contemporary consumption are not widely documented. It is best regarded as a culinary spice rather than a medicinal cure. For modern kitchens, the berries are a versatile and unique addition, enhancing everything from baked goods and marinades to dry rubs and liqueurs.
Creative Ways to Incorporate Spicebush Berries into Your Diet
Spicebush berries can be used in the same ways as allspice or black pepper, adding a unique, earthy warmth to your dishes. Its versatility allows it to be used in both sweet and savory applications.
Here are a few ideas:
- Dry Rubs: Mix ground spicebush berries with salt, garlic powder, and other herbs to create a flavorful rub for chicken, pork, or duck.
- Baked Goods: Use ground spicebush berries in place of cinnamon or nutmeg in apple pies, cakes, and snickerdoodles.
- Teas and Infusions: Steep crushed berries, leaves, or twigs in hot water for a fragrant and flavorful tea. It can also be added to fruit infusions or fermented drinks.
- Marinades and Sauces: Add whole or crushed berries to marinades for meat or incorporate the spice into barbecue sauces for an unexpected depth of flavor.
- Pickling Spice: Include whole spicebush berries in your homemade pickling spice mix for a native twist on traditional recipes.
Conclusion
So, can humans eat spicebush berries? Yes, they can, and in doing so, they connect with a long-standing tradition of using native North American plants in the kitchen and for wellness. As a unique and flavorful spice, the American spicebush berry provides a taste of the wild. However, the experience of foraging for and cooking with this plant comes with a clear responsibility: to be absolutely certain of its identification. For those with a love for foraging and unique flavor, a little bit of care and attention can unlock a flavorful, aromatic reward from the forest floor.
For more recipes and inspiration for using spicebush and other foraged items, check out this guide on Backyard Forager.
