Star Anise

Star Anise (Illicium Verum, I. Anisatum) is the aromatic dried fruit of a small evergreen magnolia native to China. Its warm, sweet, spicy clove and licorice flavour is a defining element in Chinese cooking on its own and as a dominant note in five-spice powder and Chinese master stock. It is also commonly used in Vietnam and in Kerala in southern India. Star anise goes particularly well with mushrooms, lamb, beef, pork, duck and game and to spice fruit compotes and other sweet dishes. Combine it with sweet soy as a delicious marinade for ribs or add it to hearty slow-cooked soups and stews.