Aniseed (Yansoun)

Aniseed, known in Lebanon as yansoun, is the small, ridged seed of the anise plant, prized for its sweet, liquorice-like aroma. It is one of the most familiar spices in Lebanese homes. Many people simmer the seeds in hot water to make yansoun, a warm drink often sweetened with sugar. Aniseed is also used in baking, flavouring breads, ka'ak and other sweet pastries, and it appears in traditional puddings and spice blends. A small amount goes a long way, so it is easy to measure out just what a recipe needs. At Dekenet Al Nes, a package-free grocery store in Baaqline in the Chouf, aniseed is sold by weight. Customers are encouraged to bring their own jars or bags and refill, cutting down on plastic and single-use packaging.