Star Anise

This star-shaped capsule is chemically dominated by anethole, responsible for its powerful licorice flavor (thirteen times sweeter than sugar itself). Its essential oils are highly soluble in alcohol and lipids. Essential in the composition of Vietnamese Pho broth or Chinese five-spice, star anise is infused at a prolonged simmer. It also excels cold, macerated in alcohols or syrups, to create surprising aromatic bridges with fennel or dark chocolate.