The liquorice-flavored, aromatic seeds of the Mediterranean anise plant. It should be purchased in small quantities and stored in a sealed container in a cool, dry place.

Preparation: the seeds may be used whole or crushed to help release their flavour.

Uses: aniseed may be used as a spice in cakes and biscuits or sprinkled onto salads or cooked vegetables. It may also be stepped in boiling water to make a tea, which is said to be beneficial to digestion.

** Vegetarian Cookery** and ** Slimming Desserts Recipes**