The star anise is the fruit of the star-anise tree, known scientifically as Illicium verum, and is a commonly used spice.Star anise can eliminate the foul smell from meat and add new fragrance to it, hence another name is fennel seed.Star anise is a specialty of China and is mostly produced in Guangdong and Guangxi provinces.It has a purple-brown color, shaped like eight corners, resembling a star, with a sweet taste and a strong aromatic odor, which comes from its volatile oil compound eugenol.Star anise is an essential condiment for making cold dishes and braised or stewed dishes. Its function surpasses that of other spices, and it is also the main ingredient in the production of five-spice powder.
