2 3/4 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. butter, softened
3 eggs
2 tbsp. anise flavored liqueur
2 tbsp. water
1 tbsp. anise seed
1/2 of 12 oz. pkg. (1 c.) semi-sweet chocolate
1 c. coarsely chopped toasted almonds

In medium bowl, combine flour and baking powder; set aside. In large bowl, combine sugar and butter; beat until creamy. Add eggs, anise flavored liqueur, water and anise seed; beat until well blended. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in semi-sweet chocolate and almonds. Cover, chill several hours.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Divide dough into 4 pieces with floured hands. Make the cookies into 15 1/2 x 2 x 1/2 inch loaf. Place loaves 4 inches apart on greased cookie sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes. Remove from oven. Cut into 1 inch slices. Place slices back on cookie sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 7 minutes. Turn cookies over. Bake at 375 degrees for 7 minutes. Be sure to cool completely.