Location: Northern Vietnam (Diên Bien forests)
Botanical classification: Illicium verum
Star anise, or badian, is an eight-pointed star that grows on the star anise tree. It has a more pronounced aniseed flavor than green anise.
Traditionally used in China in infusions, it is an ingredient in the Chinese five-spice blend.
On the palate, there is a sweet aniseed warmth and also a taste of fennel.
Note: After harvesting, star anise is transported in burlap sacks, which can break during shipping. This does not affect its quality, and we strive to provide enough whole star anise pods in the bag. However, please be aware that this may be helpful for measuring the amount in your dishes by using a larger or smaller piece.
Agreements:
Star anise is used in cooking to accompany oven-cooked meats (lamb, pork), and also finds its place in desserts (baked fruit compote, fruit salads, crème brûlée, rice pudding, etc.)
It is an ingredient in spice blends (5 spices, curries, etc.).
Regarding health:
One of the most widely used plants in herbal medicine, star anise is known to stimulate appetite and aid digestion. Its properties are numerous: antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, carminative, diuretic, anti-diarrheal, and expectorant.
