Fennel seeds - Egypt

What is fennel seed?

Fennelor common fennel is a perennial plant. It belongs to the Apiaceae family along with celery, carrot, coriander, cumin, green anise, chervil and parsnip. Fennel can be found in the capitulary of Villis, a document published under Charlemagne which imposed the cultivation of certain plants in the gardens of the royal estate. This plant thrives perfectly in a Mediterranean climate. The fennel seeds that I propose to you come from Egypt. We eat both the fennel bulb, but also the leaves and seeds, the latter being used as a condiment. In the Middle Ages, fennel was used to fight against witchcraft, it was then used as an antidote.

What is the flavour of fennel seeds?

Whatever its form, fennel has a sweet aniseed flavour. Fennel seeds bring a subtle fragrance to all your culinary preparations.

Harvesting fennel seeds in plantations

Common fennel is an imposing plant that can reach 2.50 m high. Mainly cultivated in the Mediterranean basin, it is distinguished by its shiny, fluted stems, yellow umbel-shaped flowers and grooved seeds. Fennel likes sun and warmth. This hardy perennial plant adapts perfectly to drought. Fennel seeds are harvested when they turn from green to brown. Once harvested, they are dried in a warm, dry and above all ventilated place. The stems are hung upside down. When they are very dry, the seeds fall out on their own.

How to use fennel seeds in cooking?

Fennel seeds find their perfect place in the kitchen with their aniseed flavours. Instinctively, you can imagine it accompanying a fish. In court-bouillon, papillote or marinated, fennel seeds add freshness to your fish recipe. You can also consider a marinade to accompany shrimps a la plancha or on the barbecue for example. And why not a lemon and fennel sauce to accompany your fish? Fennel seeds can also be combined with meat. For example, it can be found in a marinated chicken curry or couscous. Fennel seeds can also be used in a vinaigrette to accompany a salad with cheese. If you like herbal teas, it is quite possible to add a bit of fennel to get that little aniseed flavour that makes all the difference.

The health benefits of fennel seeds

Fennel is an aromatic herb that is known for its various virtues. The fennel seed is widely used in Chinese medicine and has today found its place in Europe. It is ideal to fight against digestive disorders. Rich in fibre, it improves digestion when used as an infusion and strengthens intestinal muscles. It helps to fight against stomach aches, bloating and other flatulence. It is also a diuretic. Rich in antioxidants, fennel seed has anti-inflammatory properties. It also provides thebody with calcium and regulates blood pressure thanks to its potassium content.

The conservation of fennel seeds

My fennel seed from Egypt comes in a resealable airtight bag. Store it in a dry place away from light.