Star Anise

Star anise (Illicium verum) is a highly aromatic spice made from the star-shaped capsules of the Chinese star anise tree (Illicium verum). This spice is known for its sweet, aniseed-like aroma and flavour, which also has a slightly bitter and astringent note. Star anise is native to China, but is also grown in Vietnam, Japan and North America.
History of star anise

Star anise has been used as a spice in China for centuries. Archaeological evidence suggests that it was used as early as the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD). Star anise came to Europe in the 16th century and soon became a popular spice. It was often used to flavour liqueurs, spices and medicines.
Taste and uses of star anise

Star anise tastes sweet, aniseed-like, slightly bitter and astringent. It has a strong, spicy, aniseed aroma. Star anise is used to flavour many dishes, including:

Meats. It adds a particularly delicate flavour to pork and poultry.
Fish: Star anise is also used to flavour fish dishes. It goes well with salmon, tuna and perch.
Vegetables: star anise can also be used to flavour vegetables. It goes well with cabbage, carrots, beetroot and pumpkin.
Desserts: star anise can also be used to flavour desserts. It goes well with fruit tarts, compotes and puddings.
Drinks: star anise can also be used to flavour drinks. It goes well with teas, mulled wine and liqueurs.