Revisit A to Z of French Herbs - Anis Vert - Green Anise
It’s Revisit Sunday on Fabulously Delicious, the French Food Podcast, and today we’re shining the spotlight once again on Anis Vert — or green anise. This humble but fragrant herb has been seasoning French kitchens, pastries, and drinks for centuries, and it deserves another moment in the spotlight.
In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of Anis Vert, from its origins in the Middle East and Mediterranean to its spread across Europe under the rule of Charlemagne. Along the way, you’ll discover how this aromatic plant captured the imagination of the ancient Greeks and Romans, and why it remains such a treasured part of French cuisine today.
We’ll also look at how Anis Vert is used in cooking and baking, from salads and soups to classic French spiced bread, pain d’épice. Beyond the kitchen, this little herb plays a starring role in some of Europe’s most famous drinks — from pastis to absinthe — and carries with it a long tradition of medicinal use, known for its digestive, anti-inflammatory, and even mood-lifting properties.
So, whether you’re a passionate cook, a curious foodie, or simply love discovering the stories behind French ingredients, this Revisit Sunday episode is the perfect way to reconnect with the flavors of Anis Vert. Join me, Andrew Prior, as we rediscover the fabulous world of this small but mighty herb — and celebrate all the deliciousness it brings to French culture.
My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. You’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com
For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com
You can help keep the show thriving by becoming a monthly supporter. Your support helps me create more episodes celebrating French food, history & culture. Here's the listener support link. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Merci beaucoup!
Popular Podcasts
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show
The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton tackle the biggest stories in news, politics and current events with intelligence and humor. From the border crisis, to the madness of cancel culture and far-left missteps, Clay and Buck guide listeners through the latest headlines and hot topics with fun and entertaining conversations and opinions.
The Charlie Kirk Show
Charlie is America's hardest working grassroots activist who has your inside scoop on the biggest news of the day and what's really going on behind the headlines. The founder of Turning Point USA and one of social media's most engaged personalities, Charlie is on the front lines of America’s culture war, mobilizing hundreds of thousands of students on over 3,500 college and high school campuses across the country, bringing you your daily dose of clarity in a sea of chaos all from his signature no-holds-barred, unapologetically conservative, freedom-loving point of view. You can also watch Charlie Kirk on Salem News Channel