Star Anise

A spice commonly called star anise, staranise, star anise seed, Chinese star anise, or badian that closely resembles anise in flavor is obtained from the star-shaped pericarps of the fruit of I. verum which are harvested just before ripening.

Star anise tastes much like a standard anise seed, but slightly more bitter, which is why some chefs use it to provide a licorice flavor for some dishes.

Anise seed is used more in Western dishes, particularly in Greek and French cuisine, since it has an intense, aromatic flavor that's good for sauces. On the other hand, star anise is more common in Asian cooking.

Star anise is a good source of two antioxidants: the essential oil linalool and vitamin C that helps protect the body against cellular damage caused by free radicals and environmental toxins.

Star anise pairs with chicken, eggs, fish, figs, tropical fruit, soy sauce, leek, pork, pumpkin and root vegetables. It also combines well with chilli, cinnamon, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, garlic, ginger and lemongrass.