Star Anise

Illicium verum Spice

Star Anise Spice

At a Glance

  • Category Spice

The Forktionary Angle

"The aromatic star of the spice rack."

Definition

A star-shaped spice from the fruit of an evergreen tree, known for its strong, sweet, licorice-like flavor, essential in many Asian cuisines and spice blends.

Active Flavor Compound Anethole (responsible for licorice flavor).
Main Culinary Use Key ingredient in Chinese five-spice powder and Vietnamese pho.
Optimal Storage Up to 2 years whole in an airtight container.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Star Anise are:

Strong sweet pungent licorice-like aniseed

Chef’s Secret

Add a whole star anise to poaching liquid for fruit, or to a simmering pot of rice, for an unexpected aromatic complexity. Remove before serving.

Best Substitutes

Anise seed

use slightly less, 0.
Ratio 75:1

fennel seed

milder
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for whole, unbroken stars for best potency. Avoid broken pieces if possible.

Recipes Using Star Anise

Holiday Event Dietary Summer Occasion

A Most Excellent Raspberry Iced Tea

Craving a refreshing and subtly sweet iced tea? This recipe, inspired by a quest for the perfect summer beverage, delivers a delightful blend of fruity raspberry and fragrant green tea. We start with a delicate green tea base to avoid overpowering the raspberries' delicate flavor (though feel free to experiment with black tea – let us know how it turns out!). This isn't your typical sugary sweet tea; it's a refreshing balance of tart and sweet, perfect for a hot day. Customize it further with optional additions like vanilla bean, spices, and citrus! Get ready to sip on summer in a glass.

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30 Minutes Or Less Preparation Main Ingredient Presentation

Asian Caramelized Chicken

This irresistible Asian Caramelized Chicken recipe is a family favorite that's impressive enough for guests! Tender, juicy boneless, skinless chicken thighs are coated in a luscious, sticky glaze, then finished with crunchy peanuts and fresh cilantro for an unforgettable flavor explosion. Ready in under 30 minutes!

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Course Dips Easy Preparation

Asian Hummous

Elevate your appetizer game with this vibrant Asian Hummus! Inspired by Bon Appetit (January 2006), this recipe uses canned beans for a speedy prep time, but don't skimp on the star anise – it's the key to unlocking its unique flavor. Serve with shrimp chips or your favorite spicy potato chips for an unforgettable snack or starter. Get ready for a burst of Asian-inspired flavors in just 15 minutes!

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Summer Cuisine Course Preparation

Authentic Spanish Sangria

Tired of watery, Americanized sangria? This recipe, perfected after two years of exploring hundreds of bars across Spain, delivers the authentic Madrid experience. Forget sugary grape juice – this vibrant sangria bursts with the fresh flavors of Spain. We've even included a fantastic substitute for hard-to-find Spanish ingredients. Prepare to impress your guests with this truly authentic taste of Spain!

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Coconut Fruit Time To Make Coconut

Baked Coconut Rice Pudding

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy Baked Coconut Rice Pudding! This classic dessert features fragrant coconut milk, sweet rice, and a hint of lime, baked to golden perfection. A touch of star anise adds an extra layer of warmth and spice. Perfect for a comforting dessert or a special occasion.

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Equipment Dietary Chicken Thighs Legs Meat

Baked Oriental Chicken

A deliciously easy and healthy Chinese-inspired dish, adapted from Delia Smith! This low-fat baked chicken recipe is bursting with flavor and ready in under an hour. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, impressing guests, or simply satisfying your craving for authentic Asian tastes.

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Vegetables Time To Make Main Dish Preparation

Barley And Sesame Chicken Stir Fry

This quick and easy 20-minute Barley and Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry recipe from Lorna Sass's "Whole Grains Every Day, Every Way" is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe uses leftover cooked barley (or your favorite grain!) and pre-sliced chicken for ultimate convenience. The savory sesame sauce, crunchy vegetables, and tender chicken create a delicious and satisfying stir-fry that's sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with a crisp Chenin Blanc for the ultimate culinary experience!

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Asian 4 Hours Or Less Time To Make Malaysian

Beef Kurmah Curried Beef

Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of Beef Kurmah, a delightful Malaysian curry! This incredibly tender, flavorful beef curry is perfect for a cozy night in and is freezer-friendly for future delicious meals. Easy to follow instructions guide you to curry perfection!

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Course Dinner Party Kid Friendly Main Ingredient

Beef Pho

Experience the rich, savory depths of authentic Vietnamese Beef Pho! This classic recipe, perfect for beef lovers, delivers a heartwarming and flavorful soup that's worth the time. While the elaborate, slow-simmered broth takes dedication (and is best made a day ahead), the result is a deeply rewarding culinary journey. Fresh herbs and perfectly seared beef elevate this dish to an unforgettable experience. Prepare to be amazed!

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African Cuisine Seafood Time To Make

Shrimp Curry

Escape the chill with this vibrant Shrimp Curry! A fragrant blend of warming spices creates a rich, flavorful sauce that's just the right amount of heat. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this recipe allows you to make the curry sauce ahead of time, adding fresh shrimp just before serving for ultimate convenience and delicious results. Get ready for a taste of paradise!

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