Green Anise Seeds

What is green aniseed?

Anisum officinarum, pimpinella anisum or green anise is a herbaceous plant of the Apiaceae family to which also belong dill, coriander or cumin. It is its seeds that interest us here, those that we consume in a variety of dishes from appetizer to dessert. However, the anise is a fabulous plant which we can exploit all the parts, from the leaves to the roots through the stems. This plant is native to the Mediterranean basin (my green anise comes from Syria). It was used as early as 1550 BC to treat digestive disorders. In France, it is Charlemagne who imposes its use, it appears besides in the famous capitular De Villis. In the Middle Ages, in France, elixirs are made from this aniseed while in England this plant is considered a drug. Today, the green aniseed has imposed itself in our kitchens and seduces both for its gustatory properties and its therapeutic virtues.

What is the flavor of the green aniseed?

We like its olfactory power, but also, and especially this fresh and delicately sweet flavor.

The harvest of the green aniseed

The pimpinella anisum produces very pretty white flowers which will give these famous seeds of color gray-green. They are harvested in late summer when they begin to dry and they are easily detached.

How to use the green anise seeds?

Green aniseed is a beautiful product that will accompany you throughout the day. If it is integrated into all your recipes, it is also very appreciated in infusion. As an aperitif, green anise is used in anisette, raki and ouzo.

Our recipe ideas with green anise seeds

Leeks with green anise vinaigrette

The leek vinaigrette is a great classic of the French culture. It's time to shake things up by adding green aniseed. Take the leek whites, wash them and cook them in boiling salted water for 5 to 10 minutes. Drain them. Prepare your vinaigrette with olive oil, vinegar, mustard, pepper and green aniseed. Drizzle the dressing over the leeks and enjoy.

Chicken with honey and green aniseed

Prepare a marinade with small pieces of chicken, green aniseed and honey. Prefer a rather soft honey like acacia honey. Leave the preparation for a few hours and then heat in a pan. Serve with rice and mushrooms. You'll love this salty dish full of freshness.

Pear mousse with green aniseed

This simple and light dessert will gain in freshness with the presence of green anise seeds. Peel your pears and dice them. Cook them in a pan with water, a little sugar and green anise. Soften gelatin in a bowl of water. Squeeze it out and add it to the mixture. Beat the egg whites until stiff and fold them gently into the warm mixture. Pour into your containers and leave in a cool place for 2 to 3 hours.

The virtues for the health of the green anise seeds

The green anise seed is a spice very appreciated for its virtues.

The conservation of the green anise seeds

The green anise seed should be stored preferably in a dry place and away from light.