Fennel Seeds

If you’ve ever enjoyed a hot Italian sausage then you know dried fennel seeds.

They are a small green/grey seed from the fennel plant, grown from the Mediterranean to India. They are intensely aromatic, with flavors of licorice, sweet citrus, and natural honey.

Fennel spice can enhance dishes as varied as tomato-based sauces, creamy soups, dry pork rubs, and fresh baked biscotti. Make a quick and delicious rub by mixing sweet fennel seeds with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and onion. Use the whole fennel seed in breads, stews, sausages, spice mixes and more.

To release the most flavor try grinding or dry frying the seeds before using them. To dry fry, heat the seeds in a pan until they are lightly golden in color.

Fennel seeds have a long shelf life. Kept in an airtight container in a cool and dark place, fennel seeds will keep for up to two years.