Star anise 60 g

Native to China and Vietnam, star anise is today grown almost exclusively in China (90% of world production). It is, as the name suggests, star shaped, radiating pointed boat-shaped sections. The fruit is picked before it can ripen, and dried. The stars are available whole, or ground to a red-brown powder. Applications : apart from its use in sweetmeats and confectionery, it contributes to meat and poultry dishes, combining especially well with pork and duck. In the West, star anise is added in fruit compotes and jams, and in the manufacture of anise-flavoured liqueurs (anisette). Star anise pairs brilliantly with tomatoes. It’s licorice-like flavor actually bears a close resemblance to that of fennel and basil, tomato’s classic companions. It is also an ingredient of the "Chinese Five Spice” mixture.