Anise

Also Known As : Vilayti Saunf, Anise seed

Technical Name : Pimpinella anisum

Descriptions
details

Vegetarian

Taste Profile

Aniseed powder has a sweet and highly aromatic scent with a distinct liquorice flavour.

Usage Tips

Anise is used mainly for its aroma and flavour and is commonly added in Italian desserts, and charcuterie (cold cooked meats).
It's used to flavour alcohol like anisette, ouzo, sambuca and absinthe.
Anise can be added to baked goods, fruit pies and ground meat dishes. It can also be used to flavor coffee or hot chocolate.
It should be stored in an air-tight containers in the cool, dry place and also far from direct sunlight.
The seeds when used to brew tea produce a refreshing licorice flavour. Anise whether whole or ground should be stored in a cool and dark place for the best preservation.

Common names and forms

Ani (Fennel) Seed
Anise Seeds
Aniseed
Sounf Whole
Thin Aniseed

Description

Anise is a popular spice in Middle Eastern, Italian, German, Indian and Mexican cuisine. It is used either ground or whole. It belongs to the Pimpinella anisum plant which is a member of the family Apiaceae that also includes fennel, dill, cilantro, carrots, caraway and cumin. Anise seeds are small-sized, brownish-grey in colour and are slightly curved. The seeds are also extracted for essential oil. Its cultivation is popular in Egypt, the Middle East and Europe. These seeds were highly valued by the Greeks and Romans in earlier times. The Romans used to serve an aniseed spiced cake after feasting to counteract indigestion. Anise seed till date is popular for its digestive properties.

Health benefits

Anise is rich in iron that is helpful in the formation of red blood cells It is also a good source of manganese which plays a key role in healthy metabolism in the body.⁽¹⁾
Anise aid in digestion and are helpful in preventing intestinal gas.⁽¹⁾
It may significantly help reduce symptoms of depression.⁽¹⁾
Anise contains certain compounds like anethole that are effective in preventing bacterial and fungal growth in the body.⁽¹⁾

Selection Guide

Choose whole or ground anise seeds based on the requirement. It should be well sealed to protect the aroma and flavour. Buy closest to the manufacturing date so that it is fresh.

Note

Some people may be allergic to anise seeds, especially if they are allergic to the plants of the same family like fennel, dill, cilantro, carrots, caraway, and cumin. Moreover, anise seed has properties similar to oesterogen that could worsen conditions, like breast cancer or endometriosis.⁽²⁾

Resource & Links

(1,2) https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/anise

- Disclaimer
"Information here is provided for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice or product or ingredient review/rating. The information may not apply to you and before you use or take any action, you should contact the manufacturer, seller, medical, dietary, fitness or other professional. If you utilize any information provided here, you do so at your own risk and you waive any right against Culinary Communications Private Limited, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees or representatives.”