Star anise is one of the central spices in Chinese cooking. It has a strong anise flavour, with a liquorice-like aroma.
The dominant flavour in Chinese five-spice powder, star anise is also used to flavour alcoholic drinks such as pastis. The whole spice is an attractive eight-pointed star. The seeds may be used whole, crushed or powdered.
Star anise adds a distinctive taste to simmered meat, poultry dishes, and slow cooking casserole.