So Bad, and Yet Sooooo Good

Have you ever tasted traditional European licorice? It tastes like crude oil...or even, gasoline (or what I think those would taste like).

At first.

But if you resist the urge to spit-it-out and worse, it actually is pretty tasty.

I first had it 10-years ago when a co-worker brought some in from the Netherlands and he laughed as just about everyone in the office ran for the bathroom (or trash can) - but me. I held my ground (and my gut) out of pride, and I made it past the worst part - when it started to actually taste pretty good.

I think it is definitely an adult taste - like scotch, chaw or Miles Davis.

I was thrilled when we walked into a Candy King and a quarter of the store was dedicated to just European licorice - in every shape, size, "strength" and flavor tweak. Bin after bin after bin!

I was in heaven and quickly filled a bag.

If you ever get the chance, try a few variations - and especially the salt covered varieties. If you can swallow those and keep 'em down, you’ll be a convert. Those are even worse than gasoline…but oh so good when your jaw un-puckers and your face finally loosens up.

Mmmmmmmmmmmm.

- Mike