Fennel Seed

Fennel Seeds, also known as Saunf or Variyali in India, thrive in mild climates. These small, oval-shaped, greenish or yellow-brown seeds come from the Foeniculum Vulgare plant, which belongs to the parsley family. The seeds, derived from this aromatic and medicinal herb, have a strong fragrance and a distinct, slightly sweet, and pungent flavor.The Fennel plant also serves as a food source for the larvae of certain Lepidoptera species, such as the Mouse Moth and Anise Swallowtail.Fennel provides both herb and spice varieties, as all parts of the plant — roots, stalks, and leaves — are edible. The spice is produced from the dried seeds. Native to the Mediterranean region, fennel has been cultivated since ancient Greek times. Today, it is also widely grown in India, Asia, Australia, South America, and has become naturalized in the United States.It is a popular ingredient in Asian, European, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines. In India, fennel is frequently used in meat and seafood preparations, as well as in pickles and flavored vinegars, to impart a distinctive aroma and taste.