Fennel Seed
Fennel yields both a herb and a spice. All plant parts are edible; roots, stalks and leaves, with the spice coming from the dried seeds. A native to the Mediterranean, Fennel is an ancient and common plant known to ancient Greeks and spread throughout Europe by Imperial Rome. It is also grown in India, the Orient, Australia, South America and has become naturalized in the US. It has been called “meeting seed” by the Puritans who would chew it during their long church Services
Fennel is the dried ripe fruit of a perennial aromatic herbaceous plant, which grows in mild climates. Approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inches, long and have a green food colour. They are Oblong, elliptical, straight & slightly curved with prominent ridges. It smells like amise and taste similar. It has a slight note of camphor.It has long been used in India & China for its medicinal value, yet it is believed and proved to be a multi purpose usage spice.
In India consumption of Fennel seed increases in the month of March to June. These days are generally hot, and Fennel seeds contains cool and refreshner taste. Indians have a Royal choice of having Sarbat of Fennel seeds which helps to bear, unbearable hot climate.Well known as Sauff. Indian Fennel is used in food, medicines, liquors, perfumery, also exported in the form including seeds, powder & volatile oil.
Fennel is grown largely in Gujarat, Rajasthan & Uttar Pradesh. Growing season is During August and December. India being the world largest producer of fennel seeds dominates
