The fruits, usually used whole, have a pungent, anise-like flavour and aroma that comes from essential oils. Caraway seeds are small brown scimitar-shaped seeds of a herb of the parsley family. It is used as a spice in breads, especially rye bread and is popular in German sauerkraut. Caraway is also used in desserts, liquors, casseroles, Indian cuisine rice dishes such as pulao and biryani, and other foods.