Whole Anise
Aniseed is one of the oldest known spices. The original homelands of Anise are the Middle East and islands of the Eastern Mediterranean, where aniseed oil is used to flavour aperitifs and liqueurs. In Europe it is used as a spice in baking bread and biscuits. It is also appropriate when preparing pork, if you allow yourself to be inspired by Indian and Chinese cuisine.
Tip: try adding anise to stewed apples. The pleasant liquorice aroma complements the apples very well.