SC - Anise & Fennel

[Sue Clemenger]

I've bought fennel in the grocery store--always kinda reminded me of
slightly limp celery in shape, but with a definite licorice/anise
flavor.  Absolutely wonderful chopped up in casseroles, etc, and in
vegetarian lasagne.
Also, AFAIK, star anise is not poisonous (at least not the little star
parts you use to flavor things).  For one thing, it's a major ingredient
in Chinese 5-spice powder....
- --Maire