Everything You Need to Know About Star Anise
As far as spices go, star anise is one of the most versatile. It’s gained popularity in recent years — from cooking videos on TikTok to articles on its many health benefits — because of the uniqueness it brings to a meal, particularly in Asian cuisine, and its medicinal nature.
But what’s the real deal with this wonder spice — and is it worth all the attention it’s been getting? Read on to find out more.
WHAT IS STAR ANISE?
Sometimes called Chinese star anise, it’s a star-shaped spice that is the dried fruit from the Asian evergreen tree (Illicium verum). It’s quite commonly used in Asian cooking and flavour-wise, has a sweet taste similar to liquorice.
You’ll find it in food like Vietnamese Pho, other soups, poached fruit and infused teas.
Photo by Pixabay
What are its health benefits?
Star anise is a bit reverenced in the spice world when it comes to its medicinal use. A few drops of star anise oil in hot water after a meal can reduce bloating and help digestion move along. It’s naturally known to be antioxidant-rich and loaded with Vitamin A, which helps maintain your body’s natural defences, and Vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps to protect the body’s cells from the damage caused by free radicals.
What’s the best way to cook with it?
Star anise can be used whole — in soups, stews, marinades, etc. — or ground and added in small bits to savoury meals and baked goods like bread and muffins. It’s typically found in the traditional garam masala spice blend and it’s often considered an essential ingredient in chai tea.
What’s the difference between Star Anise and Anise?
They might be similar in name, but these two are far from the same. Firstly, star anise and anise come from different plants and more importantly, the flavour of the former is stronger and more potent than anise seed.
What else can it be used for?
In traditional folk medicine practices, star anise is steeped in water to make a tea used to treat respiratory infections, nausea, constipation and other digestive issues.
In women’s health, star anise is also believed to boost an expecting mother’s immunity and increase the production of milk.
