Star anise is the best-known plant in the Illicium genus, which is part of the Schisandraceae family. It is an evergreen tree native to southern China. The fruit is arranged in a star shape and contains caramel-colored seeds. Its special shape makes it one of the most beautiful spices and a popular symbol of Christmas. The smell is similar to anise but stronger. The essential oil is found in the shell of the seeds, not inside the seeds themselves, which is why it is often used in powdered form in cooking.
Star anise is one of the ingredients in traditional Chinese five-spice powder, but it is also used in many other spice mixes. This spice can be used in many creative ways, such as flavoring Christmas desserts like fruit salads or marinating meat with pepper.
