You will usually want this blend to be cooked with the food for at least a little while to bring out more of the flavor in the fennel. However, you can just sprinkle this over cooked food if you want to add it in last minute.
If you want the blend to be more fine, give it a few whirls in a spice grinder (electric coffee grinders also work great).
I keep this blend in a a spice bottle in our spice cabinet and label it as Scarborough 6 Spice. It is wonderful to keep on hand as it pairs well with so many dishes.