Ground Leaf Sassafras
Ground Sassafras Leaf is the pulverized leaf of a common deciduous tree with a unique herbaceous flavor that is common in Cajun and Creole cuisines. We grind dried waxy, glossy sassafras leaves to a fine, woodsy green powder.


Suggested uses
Basic prep
Ready to use. Add to taste.
Storage & handling
Store in a dry, cool place.
Ingredients
Sassafras leaves
The North American Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) is the species of Sassafras tree native to eastern North America, where it grows widely throughout deciduous forests. The tree's root, bark and fruit are used to make an essential oil that is utilized in perfumes and for aromatherapy, where it is thought to benefit those with gout and sciatica, while the leaves are dried and ground as a seasoning.
Blended with a small amount of ground thyme, Ground Sassafras Leaf is sometimes called "file (FEE-lay) powder" or "gumbo file," and is used in sauces and soups, such as the iconic gumbo, in Cajun and Creole cuisines. The olive-green powder is spicy and aromatic, with a unique flavor that is reminiscent of eucalyptus or root beer, which was originally flavored with Sassafras. In addition to its flavoring capabilities, Ground Sassafras is a natural thickener, which has been used in Cajun and Creole cuisine-as well as by Native American cultures-for hundreds of years.
Classic recipe
Creole Shrimp Jambalaya
Sassafras is a primary herb in Cajun and Creole cooking. This spicy jambalaya comes together in about an hour, and it's packed with New Orleans flavor. Ground Sassafras leaf, Cayenne our Cajun Blackened Seasoning give this classic Creole dish its distinctive flavor.