Summary

Star anise, with its star-shaped allure, offers an intensely sweet licorice taste and aroma that adds a unique twist to various dishes. Native to northeast Vietnam and southwest China, it's a key ingredient in Chinese Five Spice and the rich, flavorful broth of Vietnamese pho. Whether used whole to infuse broths or ground for a concentrated burst of flavor, star anise is a versatile spice that elevates your culinary creations.

History

Star anise (Illicium verum) comes from southern China, thriving in its warm, subtropical climate. This distinctive spice has been a cornerstone of Chinese cuisine for centuries, renowned for its complex flavor profile. It made its way to Vietnam, where it plays a starring role in the famous pho broth, illustrating how one spice can adapt across different culinary traditions.

Why We Love It

We adore star anise for its bold, sweet licorice flavor that dances through our dishes with a complex, aromatic charm. It's our secret weapon in the kitchen for creating depth in broths and stews or adding a mysterious twist to baked goods. When we toss a piece into caramelizing onions, it transforms them into something magical, intensifying the savory flavors with its sweet, aniseed notes.

The More You Know

Did you know that in Chinese culture, finding a star anise with eight points is considered extremely lucky, akin to stumbling upon a four-leaf clover? Next time you're using this spice, count the points—you might just have a stroke of good fortune in your kitchen!