Star anise is a spice from an evergreen tree in the Magnolia family (Illicium verum ), native to northeast Vietnam and southwest China. The star-shaped pericarps of the fruit are harvested just before ripening, then dried. Although star anise is not the same spice as aniseed, it does have a warm, yet subtle, sweet licorice flavour, and a pungent aroma. It adds wonderful depth to spice mixes, sweet or savoury recipes, and hot beverages. They look so beautiful, too!

How to Use:
Star anise is used in many Asian dishes. It is an essential ingredient in Vietnamese pho noodle soup and Chinese 5 spice mix. Add stars to marinades and dressings, curries, hot pots, rice dishes. Use star anise to infuse delicious, warm notes in dessert recipes, sweet sauces or custards. It is best to remove these star-shaped fruits from the pot before serving, as they have an intense, bitter flavour if you bite into them. Pop one star per cup into freshly brewed coffee, herbal teas or chai.

Storage:

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Shelf Life:

Up to 18 months when stored as above. See Best Before date.

Images for illustrative purposes only.