Black licorice candy elicits a definite reaction from people - it generally is either beloved or despised, with little ambivalence. I am in the love it camp. (See the results of our Taster's Choice ...

Flavored with licorice and topped with sweet icing, Italian anise cookies are a must-have holiday cookie to complete any Christmas cookie platter.

From the look of it, you might think star anise belongs in a potpourri bowl and not a soup bowl. But you would be wrong. Star anise has a licorice-like aroma and an enticing warm, spicy-sweet flavor ...