When it comes to adding depth and warmth to your dishes, few spices can rival the fragrant and aromatic flavors of star anise. With its distinctive licorice flavor and sweet, slightly bitter notes, this ancient spice has been a staple in many cuisines around the world for centuries. From traditional Chinese and Vietnamese cooking to modern fusion recipes, star anise adds a unique dimension to a wide range of dishes – from savory meats and soups to sweet treats and beverages.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of star anise. From bold and spicy braises to comforting and soothing desserts, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with this incredible spice.
Braised Pork Belly with Star Anise and Soy Sauce
This recipe yields a rich and flavorful pork belly dish, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. The combination of star anise, soy sauce, and sugar creates a sweet and savory glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 star anise pods, crushed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork belly until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, star anise, soy sauce, sugar, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Vietnamese Pho with Star Anise Broth
This classic Vietnamese noodle soup is elevated by a rich and aromatic broth infused with star anise, a staple spice in many Asian cuisines. Serve this comforting dish at your next gathering for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 4 cups beef or chicken stock
• 2 whole star anise pods
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound beef bones (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
• 8 ounces rice noodles
• Fresh herbs (basil, mint, or cilantro), for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine stock, star anise pods, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
2. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids.
3. If using beef bones or fish/soy sauce, add them to the broth and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. To assemble the Pho, place cooked noodles into bowls and ladle hot broth over top. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Five-Spice Roasted Duck
Discover the bold flavors of China with this simple roasted duck recipe infused with the aromatic spices of Chinese Five-Spice powder. Perfect for a special occasion or weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole duck (3-4 lbs), patted dry
– 2 tbsp Chinese Five-Spice powder
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 orange, quartered (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Chinese Five-Spice powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the duck, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the duck in a roasting pan and roast for 30 minutes.
5. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the duck is cooked through.
6. Brush the duck with honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
7. Garnish with minced garlic and orange quarters, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes.
Star Anise and Cinnamon Infused Mulled Wine
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this aromatic mulled wine recipe, featuring the sweet warmth of star anise and cinnamon. Perfect for chilly winter nights, this flavorful drink is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red or white wine (750ml)
– 2 whole star anise pods
– 1 cinnamon stick (4-5 inches long)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the wine, star anise pods, and cinnamon stick.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it infuse for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Add the sugar, orange slices, lemon slices, and honey to the saucepan. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
5. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Star Anise Glazed Carrots
This sweet and savory recipe brings a new level of flavor to roasted carrots with the warm, aromatic spice of star anise. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, these glazed carrots are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby carrots
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground star anise
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, brown sugar, and star anise.
3. Add the baby carrots to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Rendang with Star Anise and Coconut Milk
This aromatic curry from Southeast Asia is a staple of Malaysian cuisine, richly flavored with star anise, coconut milk, and spices. Serve with steamed rice or roti for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg beef brisket or shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 star anise pods, broken into pieces
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, lemongrass, and star anise; sauté until fragrant.
2. Add beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; stir well.
4. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt to taste.
5. Simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Star Anise and Ginger Poached Pears
This sweet and aromatic dessert combines the natural sweetness of pears with the warm, spicy flavors of star anise and ginger. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe pears (Bartlett or Comice work well)
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 cups water
– 2 whole star anise pods
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the pears, leaving the stems intact.
2. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, star anise pods, and ginger slices.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the peeled pears to the poaching liquid, making sure they are fully submerged.
5. Poach the pears for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove the pears from the liquid with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a serving dish.
7. Strain the poaching liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean saucepan, discarding the solids.
8. Boil the liquid until reduced slightly, then sweeten with honey (if using).
9. Serve the pears warm or at room temperature, spooning some of the reduced poaching liquid over them.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spiced Star Anise Tea
As the seasons change, a soothing cup of tea can be just what you need to unwind and recharge. This Spiced Star Anise Tea recipe combines the sweet, licorice-like flavor of star anise with warming spices for a comforting brew.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea
– 2 whole star anise pods
– 1 cinnamon stick (about 2 inches long)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the black tea leaves, star anise pods, cinnamon stick, ginger, and cloves.
2. Add 4 cups of water to the pan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the tea has reached your desired strength.
4. Strain the tea into cups and discard the solids.
5. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Enjoy a warm and comforting cup of Spiced Star Anise Tea!
Star Anise and Black Pepper Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the warm, aromatic flavors of star anise and black pepper, making them perfect for a sophisticated snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground star anise
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add star anise and black pepper; mix until combined.
3. Gradually add flour; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Star Anise Infused Simple Syrup for Cocktails
Elevate your cocktails with the warm, spicy flavor of star anise. This infused simple syrup is perfect for adding depth and complexity to your favorite drinks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 4-6 whole star anise pods
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan, whisking until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the whole star anise pods to the syrup mixture.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
6. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle, discarding the star anise pods.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Use this syrup in cocktails by mixing it with your favorite spirits and garnishes. Enjoy!
Star Anise and Orange Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the warmth of star anise with the brightness of orange. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground star anise
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, star anise, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken.
4. Place the orange segments and garlic inside the cavity of the chicken.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Star Anise Scented Rice Pudding
This classic dessert gets a unique twist with the addition of star anise, creating a sweet and aromatic treat perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this comforting pudding in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, star anise, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Let cool slightly before serving warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chinese Red-Braised Pork with Star Anise
This classic Sichuan dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine, with tender pork belly braised in a rich and aromatic mixture of soy sauce, sugar, star anise, and spices. The resulting fall-apart meat is perfect for serving with steamed bok choy or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 4 star anise pods, cracked open
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic, cinnamon stick, and star anise; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, water, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return pork to pot and bring to a boil. Cover and transfer to the oven.
5. Braise at 300°F (150°C) for 2 hours or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Star Anise and Clove Spiced Apple Compote
This autumnal compote combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warm, aromatic flavors of star anise and cloves. Perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or even served alongside roasted meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 2 whole star anise pods
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, star anise pods, and ground cloves.
2. Add the sugar and water to the saucepan, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the compote cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Remove the star anise pods and use a fork to mash the apples slightly to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Star Anise and Cardamom Infused Coffee
Elevate your morning routine with this unique and aromatic coffee recipe, featuring the warm spices of star anise and cardamom. Perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 2 whole star anise pods
– 6-8 green cardamom pods
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
– Heavy cream or milk (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a cup of strong coffee according to your preferred method.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the brewed coffee and whole star anise pods. Heat over low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the spices to infuse.
3. Remove the star anise pods from the coffee by straining or picking them out with a spoon.
4. Add the green cardamom pods to the infused coffee and let it steep for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Strain the coffee again, discarding the cardamom pods.
6. Add sugar and/or heavy cream or milk to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Star Anise and Soy Marinated Tofu
Experience the harmony of sweet and savory with this simple yet flavorful tofu recipe, perfect for a quick snack or meal addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 whole star anise pod, crushed
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
2. Add the crushed star anise and black pepper to the marinade; stir to combine.
3. Place the tofu cubes into the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the tofu from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
6. Cook the tofu for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Star Anise and Vanilla Poached Plums
This recipe showcases the perfect harmony of star anise and vanilla, infusing plums with a delightful aroma and flavor. This dessert is perfect for a warm evening or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 plums (any variety), pitted
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 whole star anise pods, broken into pieces
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– Lemon slices or zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and star anise pieces.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the vanilla bean and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. Carefully add the plums to the poaching liquid, making sure they are covered.
5. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the plums are tender.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with lemon slices or zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Star Anise and Cinnamon Spiced Hot Chocolate
Cozy up with a rich and aromatic cup of Star Anise and Cinnamon Spiced Hot Chocolate. This decadent treat is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground star anise
– 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add the cocoa powder, cinnamon, and star anise. Whisk until smooth and fragrant.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in sugar and salt until dissolved.
5. If desired, add heavy cream for an extra creamy treat.
6. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Explore the bold flavors of star anise with these 18 fragrant recipes. From savory dishes like Braised Pork Belly and Beef Rendang, to sweet treats like Star Anise and Vanilla Poached Plums, this spice has something for everyone. Try adding it to your tea or coffee with Spiced Star Anise Tea or Star Anise and Cardamom Infused Coffee. Impress your guests with a show-stopping Chinese Five-Spice Roasted Duck or a fragrant Mulled Wine. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, a spicy kick, or a sweet treat, star anise is the perfect addition to elevate any dish.
