STAR ANISE

Star anise is the star-shaped fruit of a small evergreen tree, native to eastern Asia and southern China and Vietnam.
The fruits of the star anise tree are collected still green and dried.
Once dried they take on a reddish brown color with a pleasant and aromatic smell and taste and is used as a spice.
The name "star anise" derives from the shape of the ripe fruit of the homonymous plant, in the shape of a star.
It is particularly used in Chinese cuisine and in northern Europe and is a key ingredient in the Five Chinese Spices blend.

How to use Star anise?

It is used in the kitchen to flavor chicken and pork dishes, to give a sweet spicy taste to cappuccinos and hot drinks, in mulled wine, to flavor sweets and cooked fruit.
It is excellent for the preparation of infusions, for its beneficial, calming and sedative properties.
It can also be used in liqueurs and coffee, as well as as a decoration and perfumer in bouquets.