Spice
Star Anise
Star anise is the star-shaped fruit of Illicium verum, with a strong liquorice-anise aroma from anethole. Essential to Chinese five-spice, pho broths, and braises; also used whole in mulled drinks. Distinct from anise seed (Pimpinella). Broken points still flavour well; grind only as needed.
Also known as: Bajiao, Hồi
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Breeds, cuts & preparations
Variety
Chinese Star AniseGuangxi Star AniseIllicium verumVietnamese Star Anise
Source
Indoor FarmedOutdoor FarmedWild
Provenance
BiodynamicExport GradeFair TradeHand HarvestedNon-GMOOrganicPesticide FreeSingle OriginSun Dried
Preparation
CrackedDriedFreshGroundPowderRoastedToastedWhole
CommonCharacteristic
AniseAromaticIntenseLiquoricePungentSweetWarmWoody
History
CN
Star anise was used in southern Chinese cookery and traditional preparations.
Maritime trade carried star anise into European apothecaries and kitchens.
VN
Vietnamese and Chinese highland production supplied expanding global demand.
Star anise became standard in Chinese five-spice and industrial anethole production.