Star Anise

The Elizabeth Taylor of the spice world; gorgeous and flashy, with plenty of depth.

Out of stock
SKU
SCH3756BLK

Illicium verum is an evergreen tree that grows in Southern China, Laos, and Vietnam. The fruits that come forth from the tiny pink flowers are harvested and dried into the woody, aromatic, and brilliantly pretty spice we call star anise. These whole Chinese star anise have eight points, each containing a delicate seed looking like a polished bead.

The whole Chinese star anise contains the essential oil, anethole, which gives both anise and star anise their licorice flavor (the two, however, are not related in any way). The flavor is fresh, muscular, floral, and penetrating.

China and India both use the star anise aniseed spice for medicinal purposes – mainly to treat indigestion. Often the tiny seeds are chewed or brewed into a tisane. The anethole actually does have the benefit of being able to calm down gastric activity while simultaneously freshening breath.

The star anise aniseed spice has been used in Asia for years as an ingredient for braises and stews, particularly those focusing on beef, pork, seafood, winter squash, and beans. However, Western cultures have adopted the spice more for confectionery cooking and baking, as well as for flavoring spirits. Add a few star anise to the poaching liquid for apples or figs. If you plan to candy citrus peel, toss a star anise into the blanching liquid to imbue a licorice fragrance.

More Information
IngredientsDried star anise.
Basic PreparationReady to use as is, no preparation is necessary. This product can be used whole or ground to any recipe. To grind, simply use a food processor or spice mill. When this product is added whole, the star can be removed or used as a garnish.
Recommended ApplicationsThe Star Anise has many great applications to include light soups, rice pudding, steamed cabbage, roasted/barbecued chicken, braised leeks, or poached fish/shellfish.
Taste & AromaLicorice or Anise, Pungent, Sweet, Warm & Earthy
Product StyleWhole
CuisineAsian, Chinese, Indian, Malaysian, Vietnamese
Handling / StorageStore in a cool, dry place.
Shelf Life4 Years
Country of OriginVietnam
Dietary PreferencesAll Natural, Gluten-Free, Kosher Parve, Non-GMO
Allergen InformationNone Specified

Reviews

What Everyone is Saying About Star Anise