Purpose of used

Used for cooking and medicine, food, Confectionery

Star anise is a pretty star shaped spice which is used predominantly Asian cooking. The spice can be used as either whole pods or the pods can be broken into pieces or ground.

Star anise is an essential ingredient in many Chinese, Vietnamese, Indonesian and Indian dishes. It is one of the spices that combine to make Chinese five spice powder and whole pods are used in pho, a Vietnamese noodle soup.  Star anise pairs with chicken, eggs, fish, figs, tropical fruit, soy sauce, leek, pork, pumpkin and root vegetables. It also combines well with chili, cinnamon, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, garlic, ginger and lemongrass.

Flavor :

Star anise has a very strong, distinct flavor that is sweet and spicy, similar to licorice, and should be used in small quantities. Although the flavor of star anise is generally thought of as sweet, it is commonly used in savory dishes; it pairs well with citrus, onions, poultry, beef, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.