As the Christmas holidays approach, you will certainly enjoy hot and spicy preparations that give pride of place to star anise.
What is star anise?
The star anise is a fruit from the Chinese star anise. It is distinguished by its star shape and its taste anisewhich gives it its other name: star anise. Once dried, it is used as a spice in its whole or ground form.
It differs from Japanese star anise which is toxic. It is for this reason that this fruit is prohibited from marketing in France.
What are the benefits of star anise?
Star anise has many health benefits. Star anise is an interesting spice especially for:
- Facilitate digestionby stimulating the gallbladder, and calming intestinal disorders such as bloating, spasms or flatulence.
- Clear the respiratory tracts.
- Take care of the little ones mouth sores and prevent bad breath.
- Calm them down period pain.
- Fight against tiredness and stress.
It is then used in the form of herbal tea, decoction or essential oil.
How to use this anise flavored spice in your culinary preparations?
The star anise is a spice with a warm and sweet flavor, whose tones are reminiscent of liquorice. It can be incorporated into savory and sweet recipes, and goes wonderfully with ginger, cinnamon, vanilla or even nutmeg.
It can be used:
- Whole to infuse drinks.
- Powdered to provide a more powerful flavor to recipes.
The star anise works wonders when it complements fruit desserts (especially citrus fruits), such as salads and compotes. This is why it also goes well with marmalades and jams. It also flavors drinks (especially teas and spiced juices).
In savory recipes, it enhances fish, white meats, but also dishes with oriental and Chinese flavors.
come discover 9 spicy star anise recipe ideasfrom the traditional mixture of gingerbread to the most surprising salmon with vanilla and star anise, passing by the Golden milk or the Chaï Massala which will warm you during the first cold of winter.
