You don't have to peel off the bark however we like to. It tastes just as good hot or coldLike all powerful natural remedies Liquorice and it's extracts need to be treated with respect and are safe when used in mindful quantities, e.g up to 1 teacup a day
Prepare the liquorice root stick
Take one Liquorice root and shave off the bark; (you don't have to, but the bark can add a slightly bitter taste). This can be quite a messy process, therefore it's nice to do outside if you can, while you have a few deep breaths of fresh air.
Cutting the liquorice root
Use garden secateurs or strong kitchen scissors to split and chop the root in 2-4 cm lengths. You can split them lengthways first by tapping the blade of a knife (like an axe splits wood) until they split.
Boil water and simmer the Liquorice Root tea
Pop half the root, plus any powder or little bits into a pan with 450ml of water. Simmer gently for approximately 6 minutes. A clue to it being ready is the sweet aroma filling your nostrils.
Serve
You may want to strain the brew before you serve it. No need to add anything to this sweet and vitalising drink. Liquorice tea is also great cold. Leave to cool and serve on a hot day with ice.