Star anise is the fruit of a small to medium-sized, evergreen tree of south-west China. From the yellow daffodil-like flowers develop into fruits, that open to the typical star-shaped with 8 points. The ripe, star-shaped fruit bowls are red-brown and containe within each head a golden-brown seeds. For the ground spice seeds and shells are used.
Star anise is one of the most important spice in Chinese cuisine, and determines the flavor of Chinese five spice powder. In addition, it is often used for the preparation of pastries, fruit soups, plum and quince compote, punch and other types of liquor.

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