How much sweeter than sugar is liquorice root?

Liquorice root is known for its distinct sweet flavor, which primarily comes from a compound called glycyrrhizin. This compound can be significantly sweeter than sucrose, the sugar commonly referred to as table sugar. In fact, research has shown that glycyrrhizin is approximately 50 times sweeter than sugar, making liquorice root a powerful natural sweetener.

The sweetness of liquorice root is often utilized in various culinary applications, particularly in confections and beverages, where it can provide not only sweetness but also a unique flavor profile that distinguishes it from other sweeteners. Understanding this characteristic is important for anyone studying cuisine and flavor profiles, particularly those in advanced culinary training programs like those at Le Cordon Bleu.