Anise is a commonly overlooked spice which has a similar taste to fennel. With a slight licorice flavor, anise is a common ingredient in sweets and baked goods; however, it compliments a variety of dishes. Cooking with anise not only adds flavor, it helps to prevent stomach upset and indigestion.
Instructions
1. Purchase whole anise seeds and crush them with a mortar and pestle before cooking for the best flavor. Anise is also available in oils and powders; however, whole seeds retain their full-bodied flavor far better than other options.
2. Compliment the flavor of anise with a bit of cinnamon and/or bay leaf. As a general rule, add a bit of cinnamon in sweet dishes and a pinch of bay leaf for meats, stews and soups.
3. Use anise to spice sweet vegetables and fruit dishes, such as steamed pears, carrots or sweet potatoes. Additionally, a pinch of anise in your favorite baked goods, such as biscuits, cakes and cookies, adds a light and unique flavor.
4. Add a pinch of anise to add a subtle flavor to soups and stews, poultry, sausages, fish, meats and even stuffings to spice up your old favorites. Anise works particularly well in dishes that include eggs, cheese and spinach, so try adding a bit of anise to your next omelet, lasagna or pasta sauce.
5. Cook with anise in its traditional form to balance the spice with its mild licorice flavor. Anise is traditionally added to many East Indian curries as well as spicy Hispanic dishes, not only to round out the flavor but to improve digestion.
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