Fennel Seeds, 50g

Fennel Seeds, 50g

Fennel seeds come from the fennel plant (Foeniculum vulgare), a member of the carrot family. They are small, greenish-brown, oval seeds with a mildly sweet, liquorice-like flavour. Fennel seeds are widely used in Mediterranean, Indian, Middle Eastern, and European cuisines and have long been valued for their digestive and medicinal properties.

Flavour Profile:

• Taste: Sweet, slightly peppery, with strong aniseed and liquorice notes.
• Aroma: Warm, herbal, and slightly floral.
• Heat: No heat, but has a cooling effect on the palate.

Common Uses for Fennel Seeds

1. Indian and South Asian Cuisine:

• Used in curries, spice blends (garam masala, panch phoron), and pickles.
• Added to dal, vegetable dishes, and breads.
• Chewed after meals as a natural mouth freshener and digestive aid.

2. Mediterranean and European Dishes:

• Found in Italian sausages, meatballs, and pasta sauces.
• Used in breads and savoury biscuits for extra depth of flavour.
• Adds an aromatic touch to roasted vegetables and stews.

3. Middle Eastern & North African Cooking:

• Used in spice blends like Ras el Hanout.
• Added to tagines, lamb dishes, and rice-based meals.

4. Baking & Sweets:

• Used in biscuits, cakes, and spiced breads.
• Found in Italian biscotti, Indian sweet dishes, and herbal teas.

5. Beverages & Teas:

• Fennel seed tea is popular for digestion, bloating, and relaxation.
• Used in herbal liqueurs (like absinthe and ouzo).

6. Pickling & Preserving:

• A common ingredient in pickled vegetables and chutneys.
• Added to fermented foods like sauerkraut.

Health Benefits of Fennel Seeds:

1. Aids Digestion: Helps reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion.
2. Supports Respiratory Health: Can help relieve coughs and congestion.
3. Boosts Metabolism: May assist in weight management.
4. Regulates Blood Sugar: Contains compounds that support blood sugar balance.
5. Promotes Relaxation: Used in teas to aid sleep and stress relief.

Tips for Cooking with Fennel Seeds:

• Toast before use to enhance their sweetness and aroma.
• Grind for a more intense flavour in spice blends.
• Steep in hot water for a simple herbal tea.