Spice
Star anise
Also called Chinese star anise
What it is
The star-shaped fruit of an East Asian evergreen. One of phở's signature perfumes.
Origin
Southwest China and Vietnam.
Flavour
Liquorice, sweet spice.
How to use it
A little in broth. Too much tastes like cough sweets.
Storage
Whole, airtight.
Can you recognise Star anise?
Ingredient challengeQuestions about Star anise
From this ingredient's notes in the catalogue — not a chatbot.
What is Star anise?
The star-shaped fruit of an East Asian evergreen. One of phở's signature perfumes.
How do I use Star anise?
A little in broth. Too much tastes like cough sweets.
How do I store Star anise?
Whole, airtight.
What does it taste like?
Liquorice, sweet spice.
Nutrition
Per 100g · estimate · USDA FoodData Central averages and equivalent published tables. Values are typical, not lab tests of your shopping bag.
Recipes using it

Phở bò
Phở bò
Vietnamese beef noodle soup: a long, clear-ish broth, rice noodles, herbs, and a table full of finishing flavours.
4 hrA bit of work🌶️

Beef Rendang
Beef Rendang from Malaysia. Times were inferred from the source steps.
9 hr 41 minMediumNo chilli

Beef pho
Beef pho from Vietnam. Times were inferred from the source steps.
1 hr 3 minA bit of work🌶️

Vietnamese lamb shanks with sweet potatoes
Vietnamese lamb shanks with sweet potatoes from Vietnam. Times were inferred from the source steps.
1 hr 11 minA bit of work🌶️

Fish Stew with Rouille
Twist the heads from the prawns, then peel away the legs and shells, but leave the tails intact. Devein each prawn. Fry the shells in 1 tbsp oil for 5 mins, until dark pink and golden in patches. Add the wine, boil down
1 hr 27 minA bit of work🌶️

Pear Tarte Tatin
Pear Tarte Tatin from France. Times were inferred from the source steps.
1 hr 17 minMediumNo chilli

Traditional Dutch rice tart (rijstevlaai)
Traditional Dutch rice tart
Traditional Dutch rice tart (rijstevlaai) from Netherlands. Times were inferred from the source steps.
1 hr 25 minA bit of workNo chilli

