Practical ingredient guide
Star anise
A dried star-shaped spice with a strong aniseed aroma.
Herbs and spices
All year round
International
What it offers and why to use it
Use culinary star anise (Illicium verum) to flavour milk, syrups or stews. Add a small amount and remove whole stars before serving.
Flavour profile
Sweet, aniseed-like and lingering.
From shopping to cooking
Choose
Choose fragrant dry stars without moisture and an identified food-grade product.
Store
Keep sealed in a cool, dry, dark place and use dry utensils.
Prepare
Culinary infusions, compotes, custards and spiced stews.
How to make the most of it
Good pairings
Cinnamon, citrus, pears, chocolate and duck.
How to substitute it
A small amount of aniseed changes the aroma and is not an exact replacement.
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