Anise liquid extract has been becoming a staple in the culinary world, not only as a flavoring agent but also because of the several health benefits it has. Anise extract is essentially a tincture that is commonly used as a flavoring agent in cooking.
It has a rather strong, sweet licorice taste mainly because it contains the anethote compound. The majority of anise extracts are made from all organic ingredients. It is quite popularly used in baked goods worldwide and sometimes in herbal liqueurs. If you want to know more about anise extract, keep reading this blog for more information.
Are Anise Extracts And Aniseed The Same?
Even though both anise extract and aniseed have the same names and similar flavor profiles as star anise, it is not at all related to the plant. Anise, better known as aniseed, is a perineal herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family.
This category also includes other aromatic plants like celery, carrot, cumin, fennel, and dill. Star anise is more of a spice than an herb and gets harvested from the fruits of evergreen trees. The leaves and seeds of the herb are used in cooking, while the spice star anise is commonly used ground or whole.
The latter has a distinct eight-point star shape. However, when it comes to taste, both the spice and herb have the anethode compound, giving it the characteristic licorice flavor.
How Is Pure Anise Extracted?
Typically sold as a tincture, pure anise liquid extract uses alcohol as a solvent. The extracting process is rather easy and simple and uses an absorption process. Absorption usually includes steeping the anise in alcohol, helping it release its flavor.
You can do so at home as well by canning a jar full of the seeds or pods of whole star anise and then filling it with high-proof, clear alcohol, preferably vodka. However, this is a more lengthy process and requires you to leave the solution sealed and undisturbed too steep for more than three months in a dark, cold place.
What Is It Used In?
As mentioned earlier, anise extracts can really help with your baking recipes. More commonly, it gets used in cookies. Some examples of cookies that use anise extracts include Germany’s Pfeffernusse, Italy’s Pizzelle, and Peru’s Picarones. It is also quite a popular flavoring agent for biscotti. Liquor and herbal liqueurs like sambuca and absinthe also contain certain levels of anise extract.
What Health Benefits Should Anise Extract Contain?
Apart from the rich taste, anise extracts have a great set of health benefits which makes them a great addition to your recipe. Here are some common ways adding anise extracts can help you.
- It is rich in nutrients
- It can help reduce depression symptoms
- It can help protect you against stomach ulcers
- It helps prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi
- It can help with menopausal symptoms
However, to enjoy all such benefits, you must only purchase the best quality anise extract, which you can find at Hawaii Pharm.
