Aniseed, called anason in Turkish, is the dried seed of Pimpinella anisum and is loved for its sweet, warm, liquorice-like fragrance. This 100 g Bodrum pack contains whole seeds, labelled 100% natural with no artificial colours or additives, in a tear-and-reseal pouch.
In Turkish home baking anason goes into kurabiye, çörek, simit-style breads, cakes and the dough of traditional festive pastries, and it is the classic flavour behind anise spirits such as rakı. It also makes a simple, warming tea: pour hot water over a teaspoon of seeds, cover and let it steep for several minutes before straining. For a fuller flavour, lightly crush or grind the seeds just before using them, or warm them briefly in a dry pan.
After opening, press the air out and close the pouch firmly. Keep it in a cool, dry cupboard away from light and heat so the aroma lasts.