It’s spice guide time again and this month I’m focussing on star anise! This pretty spice is also versatile and delicious, so if you’re not already making the most of star anise in your kitchen hopefully this post will help!
History of Star Anise
Star anise is native to China and Vietnam, and as a result has been used in Chinese cooking and medicine since for centuries. It made its way to Europe in the 17th Century, and is now grown in China, Japan and Indonesia.
It is the fruit of a small tree which are picked before ripening and then left to dry in the sun. The trees can produce fruit for up to 100 years which is pretty amazing! The fruit can have between 5 and 10 points, each one home to a seed. They can be used whole or ground into a powder.
Star Anise Flavour Profile
Star anise has a strong liquorice scent, similar to its namesake anise, and also reminiscent of fennel. It has a sweet, aniseed flavour that is also slightly bitter. It has a strong flavour so you only need to use a little bit!
Common Cuisines
Star anise is a key ingredient in Chinese, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Malaysian and Indian food, but it also shows up in jams, liqueurs and even mulled wine. Star anise is one of the key ingredients of both Chinese 5 Spice and Garam Masala, so it certainly gets a lot of use!
It is also key for pho and masala chai, as well as pairing well with fish, chicken, beef, pork, figs, pumpkin, root vegetables, tropical and citrus fruits, eggs, tomatoes, pomegranate, soups and stews. You can also use it in baking and desserts, including gingerbread, fruit pies and cookies!
Common Spice Pairings
Star anise is commonly paired with a range of spices, including:
- chilli
- cinnamon
- coriander
- fennel
- garlic
- ginger
- lemongrass
Suggested Recipe
Given the cold weather at the moment I thought a mulled wine recipe would be appropriate! So, here goes!
Ingredients List
- 120g castor sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Zest of an orange
- Zest of a lemon
- 2 star anise
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 2tsp grated nutmeg
- Pinch of fresh ginger
- 750ml red wine
Steps
- Combine all ingredients except wine in a large saucepan over medium heat and stir to dissolve the sugar and infuse the spices
- Add the red wine and bring to a gentle simmer – don’t let it boil – and cook for 5 minutes until infused and delicious!
Do you use star anise in your kitchen?
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I Spy Plum Pie is Liz, an early 30s kiwi-born, Melbourne raised girl who is passionate about the environment and sustainability, food, exploring and learning new things. Join me on my journey to a happy, sustainable life!
Karin @ Calm to Conniption
August 23, 2016 at 8:37 pm (8 years ago)I will often use star anise in my slow cooking. Actually I don’t think I have ever used it at any other time.
Karin @ Calm to Conniption recently posted…Oz Comic-Con Fun with your chance to score a Family Pass!
I Spy Plum Pie (admin)
October 6, 2016 at 7:27 pm (8 years ago)I wish I had a slow cooker to use it in!