Star Anise Ground

Star Anise is the star shaped fruit of an evergreen tree from the Magnolia botanical family. It grows in China, Vietnam, India and the Philippines. The unripe fruit is harvested and dried and becomes dark and hard. The hard carpels of the pods and the seeds are used as spice however, it is the pods that contain most of the flavor. Recently is has been in high demand because it contains a chemical called Shikimic acid which is used in anti-viral flu medications. It is not related to the plant that anise seed comes from but they have similar flavor molecules. It has a warming licorice-like flavor with hints of clove and cinnamon.

Suggested uses - it is beautiful with chocolate - add I/2 tsp to your next batch of brownies for a magical result. The flavor is released when cooking with oil, alcohol or garlic and benefits from long cooking times.

50g