Rootbeer Leaf

Rootbeer Leaves are the young, tender leaves of the Mexican Pepperleaf plant (Piper auritum - known as hoja santa in Spanish). While full size hoja santa leaves much larger and are commonly chopped, pureed, or used to wrap & steam foods, rootbeer leaves are tender enough to be eaten without being broken down.

Pepperleaf’s flavor is subtle and hard to describe – similar to sassafras/root beer with notes of tarragon, anise, black pepper, basil or nutmeg (depending on who you ask).

Try pairing rootbeer leaves with ingredients like fish, tomatoes, chilies, shrimp/prawns, chicken, eggs, Mexican cheeses, beef, chocolate, nutmeg, and/or pumpkin seeds (aka pepitas).