In the wide panorama of spices that enrich our dishes, star anise stands out for its unique characteristics and its exotic charm . This very particular spice, coming from the forests of Vietnam and southern China , is not only appreciated for its fascinating shape reminiscent of a star, but also for its intense aroma and the health benefits it offers. With a stronger scent and more pungent sweetness than its better-known relative, anise, star anise is a true culinary treasure that has traveled across centuries and cultures.
In the medical context, star anise has been used for its carminative properties , as a digestive aid, and to treat a variety of ailments, from coughs to the flu. The spice began to gain notoriety outside of Asia thanks to the Silk Road , through which spices, silks, and other precious goods were traded between the East and Europe.
As time passed, star anise was incorporated into 17th century pharmaceutical techniques , becoming known for its properties and beneficial effects on the respiratory system. Its use has gradually expanded, entering the kitchens of various countries , where it has been adopted for its distinctive aromatic profile, capable of enriching desserts , liqueurs and savory dishes.
What is the difference between anise and star anise
Anise and star anise are two spices that, despite similar names and a certain parallel in flavor, have distinct origins, uses and botanical characteristics , making them unique in the vast world of spices. Although both spices share anethole , a compound that imparts that distinctive licorice flavor , star anise is distinguished by its more intense and pungent aroma than the sweeter, more delicate anise.
Anise , known scientifically as Pimpinella anisum , is a plant native to the Mediterranean and Middle East, prized for its delicate seeds that offer a sweet, slightly spicy flavor reminiscent of licorice, but more delicate than star anise. This spice is a traditional ingredient in many European and Middle Eastern cuisines, often used to flavor desserts, breads, and alcoholic drinks such as ouzo and sambuca , due to its properties that help improve digestion and reduce bloating.
On the other hand, star anise, or Illicium verum , has a decidedly more exotic appearance, with its star-shaped fruits containing shiny seeds. Native to humid regions of Southeast Asia, particularly China and Vietnam, star anise is an essential component in Asian cuisine , where it is used to flavor broths , marinades, and meats.
What are the benefits of star anise?
Star anise is a spice rich in antioxidants and organic compounds that have been shown to have positive effects on human health. One of the best-known uses of this spice is in the treatment of respiratory disorders . Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties , star anise is effective in relieving coughs, decongesting sinuses and improving breathing in case of cold or flu . In herbal tea form, star anise can be infused into hot water to make a relaxing evening drink that provides relief from cold symptoms .
In addition to its respiratory benefits, star anise is prized for its digestive properties. It works as an excellent carminative , reducing bloating and intestinal gas and facilitating digestion. Consuming a star anise tea after meals can help prevent digestive discomfort and promote more efficient digestion .
Star anise is also known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties . Its extracts are often used in the production of medicines and natural treatments to combat specific pathogens. Another area where star anise is proving its value is oral health . Using solutions containing star anise extracts can improve oral hygiene by fighting germs and bacteria in the mouth, and can help reduce the risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease .
How to use star anise in cooking
In Asian cuisine , particularly Chinese cuisine , star anise is a key ingredient of the famous Chinese spice mix known as " five spice ", which combines sweet, sour, bitter, umami and spicy flavors into a single harmonious balance. Star anise contributes to the sweet and aromatic profile of the mix, making it ideal for marinades and stews . It is particularly effective at enhancing the flavors of meat dishes, such as roast duck or braised pork , where its intense aroma is released during long cooking.
It's not just in savory dishes that star anise is used; it is equally surprising in sweet recipes . It can be added whole or in the powdered star anise version to flavor cakes and biscuits. An anise star can be cooked together with fruit jams to add a touch of depth to the flavor of the dessert. For those who like to experiment with drinks , star anise can be a revealing spice when added to tea or hot chocolate , offering a warm, spicy note, perfect for chilly evenings .
The key to using star anise in cooking is moderation . Precisely because of its strong flavour, even a single star can be enough to flavor an entire dish . It is important to add it at the beginning of cooking so that the gentle heat and slow cooking can gently extract its essential oils .
For those who wish to explore beyond traditional boundaries, star anise is also often used in innovative fusion cuisines . For example, it can be introduced into barbecue sauce recipes for an unexpected twist or used in marinades for grilled dishes , where its aroma can complement smoky flavors .