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Posted by on Jan 12, 2017 in Herbs N-S | 0 comments

Star Anise

Star anise is the fruit produced by a small evergreen tree grown in Japan and Star anise, as one might suspect, is star-shaped. Each of it’s eight points contains a star anise seed. Star anise has a licorice aroma and taste.

Star anise is most commonly used in Chinese cuisine. The whole star (or star pieces) is used to flavor teas, liquors and stews. Also, ground star anise one of the five spices that comprises Chinese five-spice powder.

Whole star anise has a long shelf life, but once ground, it should be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for no more than 3 months.

Medicinal

This herb Anise of Aniseed has been used for centuries best known for its flavouring in cooking, is a wonderful herb to both prevent and treat gas cramping in the digestive tract. Because of its soothing properties, Anise is useful for nausea, belching, colic and bloating. It is also of value in treating colds, coughs, flu, and even bronchitis, whooping cough and asthma. Anise helps to increase the heat of the body enabling the immune system to fight off infections.

 Culinary Uses

The whole star can be added directly to the cooking pot, alternatively grind whole or segment. Small amounts need only to be used as this is a powerful spice. Star Anise is used to sweeten meat and confectionery, where sweeteners are required. In Chinese cooking, where the ingredients are simmered for a long period in dark soy sauce, Star Anise is nearly always added to beef and chicken dishes. Stocks and soups often contain this spice. Chew the whole fruit regular as an after meal digestant and breath sweetener. In the West Star Anise is added to fruit jams and compotes.