INTRODUCTION
Aniseed, also
called Anise (pronounced “ann-is”) is the fruit or
seed from the flowering plant, Pimpinella anisum. This
herbaceous, flowering annual plant is a member of the parsley
family, and related to caraway, dill, cumin, and fennel.
Aniseed is native to the eastern
Mediterranean region and has been highly valued since ancient
times. Aniseeds have a distinctive licorice-like flavor and have been
used for medicinal purposes throughout history, especially as a digestive aid. The seeds are also used whole or crushed as a flavoring in various
foods, from baked goods and sweets to liquours such as the infamous absinthe or the Greek liqueur ouzo.
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