Star Anise - Fragrant and healthy tree fruit from Asia

Star Anise - Christmas tree fruit from Asia
Star anise is a classic Christmas spice that is often mistaken for anise. Although the decorative stars smell similar, but the aroma is fiery and heavier. In addition, the spices belong to different plant families.
The native anise plant is a herbaceous umbellifer, while star anise is the brownish fruit of an Asian tree. The evergreen tree can grow 10 to 15 meters high and is native to southern China. It is cultivated mainly in China and countries of Southeast Asia such as Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines. The fruits look like an eight-pointed star and are still harvested immature. Only after drying in the sun they unfold their sharp, sweet-spicy aroma.

Star anise: magic spice with forces of naturopathy. Image: PhotoSG - fotolia

Already 3,000 years ago, the Chinese estimated the star anise as a spice and medicinal plant. In Japan, the evergreen tree is considered sacred and is therefore often planted next to temples. It was not until the end of the 16th century that the spice came to Europe.

Star anise is also popular in German cuisine today. Its aroma refines Christmas cookies and gingerbread, fruit salads and fruit compote, jam, tea, mulled wine and grog. Even spicy dishes get a special touch with the spice from the Middle Kingdom. It harmonizes with game, poultry, fish and seafood, but also chutneys, oriental soups and various vegetables such as red cabbage, cauliflower and tomatoes. It is also an important part of Asian and Vietnamese dishes.

The spice can be freshly ground in a mortar or cooked together as a whole. Sometimes a corner of the fruit capsule is enough, which is removed before serving. Star anise is also present in Asian and curry mixes as well as the Chinese 5-spice powder. The contained essential oils make greasy and very spicy food easier to digest. In addition, the fruits should fight viruses and bacteria and have an anti-inflammatory effect. In the naturopathy they are used inter alia for abdominal pain and nausea, cough and sore throat.

Consumers find ground star anise in commerce but it quickly loses its aroma. Whole stars are longer lasting, but also cost more. Buy only intact fruits, which should be stored protected from light and airtight. Ideal is a well closable box.