Anise seed powder has a sweet, grassy flavor, reminiscent of licorice. It’s used in baking in Italy and Germany, especially in biscotti, as well as in sausage and tomato sauce recipes. It has a licorice-like sweet flavor and is widely used to flavor cakes, cookies, breads and fruit dishes. Anise seed is native to the Mediterranean basin, and has been used throughout history in both sweet and savory applications.