Anise Extract

Many of you, I'm sure, must have read in the ingredients of food recipes which require you to include anise extract in the making. It is not a very common ingredient and that is why many of you might not have heard of it. This extract is derived from a spice called star anise or anise. This spice looks like a wooden flower with 6-8 petals and is used majorly in flavoring items like cakes and cookies while baking or cooking.

This extract is especially famous for the strong, lingering and slightly sweet licorice flavor (this is due to the anithole compound). It is quite strong and therefore, it only requires a small amount of addition at one time.

The Making

Anise extract is made through a process called absorption. Absorption involves extracting the flavors from either anise or star anise. Alcohol is needed as a solvent. One needs to use a high proof alcohol agent and then steep the aforementioned items in it. Let this mixture sit for about 4-5 months in a cool dark spot for all the flavors to be essentially brought out.

Benefits

Cooking and Baking
The main use of anise extract is made while cooking and baking. It is used as a food additive to release the flavors of the dish that it is put in, and also add to the flavoring by adding its distinct licorice type flavor. It therefore, lends a more aromatic experience to the whole cuisine.

Due to its strong flavor, it is used in very small quantities for most of the dishes. The idea is to only release a hint of the flavor. It works really well when used in combination with spices like nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves and to dole out great cookie recipes.

Some of the dishes in which the extract is essentially used include the following.

• Springerle and Pfeffernusse (Germany)
• Pizzelle (Italy)
• Picarones (Peru)
• Biscotti

Liquor and Liqueurs
This extract is also used to lend a slight flavor to a select few alcoholic beverages like hard liquor and herbal liqueurs as well.

Some of these include:

• Absinthe or Galliano liqueurs
• French anisette
• Greek ouzo
• Taki

Side Effects

It is extremely important that the extract be used in a limited quantity mainly because of its strong flavor. So that instead of enhancing the flavors of a dish, it might simply override the flavors, thus spoiling the dish in the bargain. Other than this drawback, there are some other side effects that might also be seen. Here are some of them:

• Allergic reactions
• Vomiting and nausea
• Skin irritation, especially, if it is taken raw
• Muscle weakness
• High blood pressure
• Excess thirst
• Frequent urination
• Digestion problems

Though there are several side effects of the extract that have been mentioned in the article, it is important to note that these are quite rare and definitely not seen if the extract is used in measured quantities. So rest assured, start using the anise extract and see if you like the flavor it lends to your dishes.