Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is one of the world's oldest spices and herbal ingredients, prized for its intensely sweet, anise-like flavor. The root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound 50 times sweeter than sugar, giving licorice root its distinctive sweet, mellow, slightly woody character. Unlike anise or star anise, which are sharper and more volatile, licorice root has a softer, more rounded sweetness.
Licorice root is used in herbal teas, confectionery, spice blends, Middle Eastern cuisine (especially in ras el hanout), and traditional medicine. In cooking, it appears in braised meats, sauces, and slow-cooked dishes where its subtle sweetness and complexity can develop. The dried root pieces or ground powder are both common culinary forms.
When licorice root isn't available, the best substitutes depend on whether you need its sweetness, its anise-like flavor, or its role as an infusing agent in teas and braises.
■Best Substitutes for Licorice Root
Consider whether the recipe needs the sweet quality, the anise flavor, or both.
| Substitute | Flavor Match | Swap Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Star anise | Strong anise flavor, less sweet | ½ the amount |
| Fennel seeds | Milder anise, slightly sweet | Equal amount |
| Anise seeds | Close anise flavor | Equal amount |
| Dried fennel fronds | Mild, aromatic | 1.5x amount |
| Tarragon | Mild anise, herbal | 1.5x amount |
| Sweet cicely | Sweet, anise-flavored | Equal amount |
| Anise hyssop (dried) | Floral, anise-like | Equal amount |
■How to Choose the Right Substitute
For herbal teas, fennel seeds or star anise are the most practical and widely available substitutes. Fennel gives a gentler, sweeter result; star anise is more intense and should be used sparingly. For both, allow them to steep in the same way as licorice root.
In spice blends and braised dishes, fennel seeds are the safest choice — they integrate well without overpowering and add a pleasant, mild anise quality. If you need the sweetness component specifically (such as in confectionery or dessert applications), consider adding a small amount of sugar or honey alongside anise seeds to replicate both dimensions of licorice root's flavor. Star anise is the boldest substitute and should always be used at half the amount to avoid overwhelming the dish.
■Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute for licorice root in herbal tea?
Fennel seeds are the most accessible substitute and brew into a pleasantly sweet, anise-flavored tea. Use 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds per cup in place of a piece of licorice root. Star anise (1–2 pieces per cup) also works but is more intense — reduce steeping time.
What can I substitute for licorice root in ras el hanout?
Fennel seeds or anise seeds work well at an equal ratio. Star anise (used sparingly — about half the amount) is also traditional in some ras el hanout blends. If your blend already contains anise, simply increase that component rather than adding a separate substitute.
Can I leave out licorice root entirely?
In spice blends and teas where it plays a supporting role, yes — the dish will simply be less sweet and slightly less complex. In recipes where licorice is a featured flavor (like licorice-braised short ribs), a substitute is necessary. Fennel seeds or star anise will maintain the anise dimension.
Is star anise the same as licorice root?
No. Star anise (Illicium verum) and licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) both have anise-like flavor due to similar aromatic compounds, but they come from entirely different plants. Star anise is more intense and lacks licorice root's deep sweetness from glycyrrhizin.
Can I use licorice candy as a substitute?
Not recommended for cooking. Commercial licorice candy contains sugar, corn syrup, and other flavoring agents that will throw off the balance of savory dishes. Anise extract (a few drops) is a better emergency substitute if no other options are available.