Star anise is a spice made from the fruit of the tree Illicium verum. It’s aptly named for the star-shaped pods from which the spice seeds are harvested and has a flavour that is reminiscent of liquorice. It has an average of eight points, each containing a single pea-sized seed. The star anise pod is picked before it ripens and then dried in the sun, turning it a deep brown or rust colour.

Benefits: Star anise is steeped in water to make a tea used to treat respiratory infections, nausea, constipation and other digestive issues. Star Anise tea is completely safe to drink, and quite common in various Asian cuisines. It is used in culinary applications for its distinct flavour but is also employed for its medicinal benefits.

Star anise oil is a highly fragrant oil used in cooking, perfumery, soaps, toothpastes, mouthwashes, and skin creams. Both the seeds and the pod are used in cooking and contain the sweet, potent anise flavour. It also makes a great addition to sweet dishes and desserts, such as baked fruit, pies, quick bread, muffins, cookies and cakes. It is known to enhance the meat flavour and is an essential spice while preparing Biryani and other masala items in the Indian subcontinent. It is used by confectioners instead of sweeteners. It blends well with the ingredients and imparts a sweetened flavour. It is used whole or as a powdered spice.