Star Anise, Whole

Star anise has a strong liquorice flavour with warm, sweet notes. The distinctive star shapes are visually appealing, and each point of the star holds a glossy amber seed. Star anise is a main component of Chinese cuisine to infuse teas, soups (pho) and for braising liquids.

Native to China and Vietnam, it’s often used to flavour the soups, stews, and other savory dishes of these two distinct cuisines, as well as in sweet dishes and desserts. Interestingly, Star Anise has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues, coughs, and colds. In traditional Chinese medicine, Star Anise is believed to have warming and drying properties, and is used to treat cold and damp conditions. In Ancient China they also used it to make ink and dye while in Ancient Rome, it was an air freshener!

Moreover, across Europe, star anise is partnered with fruits to make jams and syrups. Mixologists love using the stars to garnish Gin and Tonics and cocktails for dramatic visual effect and a mellow liquorice flavour.

 

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