Hi Ray
Just came in starving, been in three BIR kitchens tonight and apart
from a bit Hariyali Tikka, I thought I'd save myself to try a Madras a la Fennel when I got home.
So in went half a tsp of Fennel seeds with the my usual Madras tarka, followed by
precooked Chicken thigh meat.
Result: The Fennel totally kicked the shit out of the Madras.

But in saying that, I can see where your coming from with the flavour.
I would recommend you use the smallest amount, like half a pinch or something
and it could well be what your looking for.
I still scoffed the lot, a bit too much Fennel's not going to put me off. ;D
Cheers Chewy