Overview

Fennel Seed is a small elongated seed that is both used whole or ground and is identified by its licoricey flavour. It is native to the Mediterranean region, but also grown and processed in the Middle East. In India, it is most welcoming to receive a bowl of fennel seeds with small sugar crystals after a meal is paid for. It freshens the breath and leaves the mouth with that licoricey smell.

Fennel seeds can be used whole or ground in a wide array of meat and fish dishes. It also adds unique flavours to vegetarian dishes such as dahls, grain pilafs and vegetable curries. Italian cuisine benefits from fennel seeds by adding it to breads and meaty stews. It is not only limited to savoury dishes, no, fruit salads with a sprinkle of fennel seeds makes for quite a taste sensation. Homemade crackers with a sprinkle of fennel seed is quite delicious too.

The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking.
Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won’t do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.