Star anise: flavour, uses and substitutes
Intensely sweet and liquorice-like.
Illicium verum
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Three identifying features
- Star of woody fruit chambers
- Brown pointed segments
- Strong anise scent
Fresh or dried?
Whole dried fruits are easy to remove; use powder sparingly.
When should it go into the pan?
Infuse whole stars in sauce or stock, then remove.
What does it go with?
Plum compote, braises, broths and spiced baking.
Cuisines & dish ideas
Try Chinese-inspired braises or a winter plum compote.
What can replace it?
Aniseed, starting with a small amount.
How should it be stored?
Keep whole stars sealed, dry and dark.
Recipes using it
The ingredient list names this herb or spice. Check the recipe for fresh or dried form and quantity.
Sources and notes
Sources
- Kew · Illicium verum · Accessed 2026-10-25
- BZfE · Gewürze und Kräuter sicher genießen · Accessed 2026-10-25
Image: AI-generated (OpenAI). Image note: The illustrations were created with AI. They show culinary ingredients and are not a guide to identifying wild plants.