Green aniseed is a small, aromatic seed that has been used for centuries for its medicinal and culinary properties.
It has a sweet, liquorice-like flavour and a subtle, refreshing fragrance. Green aniseed is often used as a flavouring in a variety of dishes, including sweets, pastries and drinks such as tea and absinthe. It is also known for its digestive properties and has traditionally been used to relieve indigestion.
Green aniseed can be enjoyed pure as a snack or used as a flavourful addition to a variety of dishes and drinks.
Origin: Cameroon
Recipe for French aniseed biscuits:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup icing sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green aniseed
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional icing sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, icing sugar and salt.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy.
- Add the chopped green aniseed to the butter and beat until well combined.
- Stir in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
- Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and stir until the dough is evenly mixed.
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the biscuits are lightly golden.
- Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the biscuits have cooled completely, you can dust them with additional icing sugar.
- These French aniseed biscuits are the perfect way to enjoy the sweet and slightly spicy taste of green aniseed. They make a great snack or dessert and are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the taste of aniseed.