Guide Note

The ripe fruit of the Pimpinella anisum is dried to produce the small, grayish-brown, oval anise seeds used in cooking. Its strong licorice taste gives flavor to the candy of the same name and various alcoholic spirits, such as Greek ouzo and Spanish anisette.

Anise can be used whole or crushed and is a common addition to many European cakes and sweetbreads.It is also an ingredient in some East Indian curries and soups.

One of the oldest known cultivated spices, anise is mentioned in the Old Testament and was used by Ancient Egyptians in the mummification process. Hippocrates, one of the earliest Greek physicians, recommended anise to stop bouts of sneezing. In the 1300's, taxes on imported anise helped to fund repairs to the London Bridge.

Fast Facts

1. Originated in the Mediterranean
2. Also known as aniseed
3. Aids digestion
4. Dogs are attracted to anise
5. Often confused with or substituted for fennel
6. Toasting the seeds enhances their flavor