RECIPESPRODUCTSPANTRYSHOPPING

Fennel Seed

Fennel seed, a highly versatile spice, is derived from the flowering plant species Foeniculum vulgare which belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is oval-shaped, with a green or yellow-brown color, and exudes an aromatic flavor reminiscent of licorice and anise. The seeds are harvested from the blooms, dried, and then used as whole or ground for various culinary applications. In the kitchen, fennel seed is widely employed to impart their sweet, warm, and earthy flavor to dishes ranging from Italian sausages to Indian curries and spice blends, such as Chinese five-spice powder. Additionally, they can be used to infuse syrups, and even steeped to make a calming tea, which is believed to aid in digestion and provide other potential health benefits.
#74
IN SEASONINGS
345
CAL / 100G
$2.48
AVG / OZ
fennel seed
63%
CARBS
18%
FAT
19%
PROTEIN
Fennel Seed FAQ
Cooking with fennel seeds can be a fun and unique way to add flavor to your meals, but people sometimes find it challenging to use them correctly. Many are unsure when to add the seeds to their dish, whether to use them whole or ground, and how much to use. There's also a question of pairings and what kind of foods taste better with fennel seeds. First off, deciding between using whole and ground seeds comes down to the dish you're preparing. For slow-cooking dishes like soups and stews, whole seeds are preferred as they release their flavor slowly. However, for quick-cooking or baked dishes, ground fennel seeds are better for infusing flavor quickly. Not knowing how much to use is a common error. The strong, anise-like flavor of fennel can be overpowering. A little can go a long way, therefore, start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste. Fennel seeds are quite versatile when it comes to pairings, they work beautifully with pork, beef, grains, onions, cabbage, lentils, potatoes, and apples. Moreover, toasting them prior to use can unlock an extra layer of aroma and taste. Use a dry pan, medium heat and shake or stir until they release a toasty scent, then remove immediately to avoid burning. Lastly, grinding fennel seeds at home rather than buying pre-ground can ensure you get the most out of your seed's flavor and aroma.
Are fennel seeds good for digestion?
Can I use fennel seeds if I don't like the taste of licorice?
How do I use fennel seeds in cooking?
Should I toast fennel seeds before using them?
Can I grind fennel seeds at home?
Can fennel seeds be eaten raw?
Is there a good substitute for fennel seeds in a recipe?
Do I use fennel seeds whole or should they be crushed?
What kind of dishes pair well with fennel seeds?
Can too much fennel in a dish be overwhelming?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does fennel seed expire?
Unopened, fennel seeds can last up to 3-4 years when stored properly, this is usually longer than the date printed on the packaging. Once opened, they can retain their potency for around 1-2 years. As for freezing the fennel seeds, it's not a commonly practiced method since it does not significantly extends the shelf life of the seeds. However, if frozen, they can last indefinitely, though the flavor may start to fade after the first year.
How do you tell if fennel seed is bad?
When fennel seeds go bad, they typically lose their aromatic scent and flavor. So, a clear sign that your fennel seeds may no longer be good for consumption is if they no longer smell sweet or taste flavorful. You may also notice a change in color, with the seeds becoming duller and grayer instead of the usual vibrant green or yellow-brown.
Tips for storing fennel seed to extend shelf life
• Store the fennel seeds in an airtight container. This keeps moisture and air out, which can cause the seeds to spoil more quickly. • Place your container of fennel seeds in a dark, cool, and dry place. Excessive heat, light and moisture can hasten the deterioration of the seeds' quality. • Avoid touching the seeds with your fingers as much as possible. Oils from your skin can transfer onto the seeds and accelerate the spoiling process. • Test the freshness of fennel seeds by crushing one in your hand and smelling it. If the aroma is still strong, it is probably still potent. • Periodically shake or turn the container to circulate the seeds and ensure they don't become compacted and stale more quickly.
EXPIRES WITHIN
2 - 3.6
YEARS
Health Info
Macros
1g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
Recipes with what you have
Download Cooklist
Get the app to track inventory, save recipes, build meal plans and order groceries from local stores.
Scan to download
QR Code