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Anise seeds are used in both culinary and medicinal applications due to their sweet, licorice-like flavor and potential health benefits. They flavor a wide variety of baked goods, candies, and liqueurs, and can be added to savory dishes like sausages and stews. Medicinally, anise is used to aid digestion, relieve menstrual cramps, soothe respiratory issues like coughs and asthma, and act as a breath freshener.
Culinary uses
Baking: Anise is a classic ingredient in many baked goods, such as Italian pizzelle and biscotti, German pfeffernüsse and springerle cookies, and sweet rolls.
Beverages: It is used to flavor liqueurs like ouzo and sambuca, as well as some teas and even root beer.
Savory dishes: Anise can be used to season sausages, stews, and other meats. It pairs well with seafood and can be added to Indian curries.
Confections: It is a flavor in many candies, including black licorice jelly beans.
Breath freshener: Chewing anise seeds after a meal can help freshen breath.
Medicinal uses
Digestion: Anise can help with indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and flatulence. An infusion of seeds in hot water is a traditional remedy.
Respiratory health: It may soothe coughs, bronchitis, and asthma by helping to thin mucus.
Menstrual relief: Anise tea may help with painful or irregular menstrual periods.
Sleep: Some believe anise can help with insomnia and promote relaxation.
Other potential benefits: It is also traditionally used to aid lactation, and may have antifungal and antibacterial properties.
How to use
Whole seeds: Toast or sauté whole seeds before adding them to dishes to release their aroma.
Ground seeds: Add ground anise to spice rubs or baked goods.
Tea: Steep crushed or whole seeds in hot water to make a tea.
Essential oil: The essential oil is used in some perfumes and soaps.