Spice | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Aniseed

Pimpinella anisum Allergen-Free
Aniseed

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Apiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Indian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Anise plant seeds

The Forktionary Angle

"The ancient spice imparting a warm, sweet licorice essence to cuisines worldwide."

Definition

Small, aromatic seeds from the anise plant, known for their distinctive licorice-like flavor.

Sensory Profile

TastePungent, Sweet, Licorice, Aromatic
TextureSmall, Hard, Crunchy (when whole)
AromaLicorice, Herbal, Sweet
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Key Flavor Compound

Anethole

Major Producer

Turkey

Shelf Life (Whole Seeds)

2-3 years

Nutrition Facts

Per 2g (1 tsp)
Calories337 kcal
Total Fat15.9 g
Saturated Fat0.6 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein17.6 g
Total Carbohydrate50 g
Dietary Fiber14.6 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium646 mg
Iron36.9 mg
Potassium1441 mg

Chef’s Secret

Toasting aniseed lightly before grinding or adding to dishes enhances its aromatic compounds and deepens its flavor.

Substitutions

Best Match

Star Anise

1:1 (powdered), 1 pod per 1/2 tsp seeds

Stronger licorice flavor, use sparingly; visually distinct.

Fennel Seed

1:1

Milder licorice and sweet flavor, can be used in similar savory and sweet applications.

Licorice Root Powder

1:2 (aniseed to licorice powder)

Intense licorice flavor, but less aromatic; best for sweet dishes.

Caraway Seed

1:1

Distinct savory, earthy flavor, less licorice; good for breads and savory dishes.

Buying Guide

Purchase whole seeds for maximum freshness and grind as needed. Store in an airtight container away from light and heat.

Flavor Pairings

Seafood pork lamb baked goods curries liqueurs (ouzo pastis).

Recipes Using Aniseed

Apple Beet And Walnut Salad image 118
Low Protein Low Calorie Apples Preparation

Apple Beet And Walnut Salad

This vibrant fall salad is a delightful and simple starter perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. Sweet apples, earthy beets, and crunchy walnuts are tossed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette for a light yet satisfying dish that will impress your guests. Easy to make and bursting with autumnal flavors!

See Complete Recipe
Auntie's Pumpkin Pie image 183
Course Pies Desserts Pies And Tarts

Auntie's Pumpkin Pie

This pumpkin pie recipe is a family heirloom, requested by my nephew for every holiday and special occasion! We love experimenting with different crusts – ginger cookie and shortbread are particular favorites. My secret? Adding whipping cream to the filling mellows out the warm spices beautifully, creating a luxuriously smooth and flavorful pie that's sure to impress. Get ready to experience pumpkin pie perfection!

See Complete Recipe