Star anise has so many great uses:
• Flavoring and braising spice for meats, such as a Star Anise Beef or Chicken Stew
• A digestive tea when smashed and steeped in boiling water, and has a terrific licorice-y taste
• Unusual and delicious flavoring in desserts such as the Poached Pears in Red Wine
• Great paired with cinnamon sticks
• And a great seasoning year-round, but especially in time for Chinese New Year

Once only available in Asian markets, you can now buy it in the spice section of supermarkets.
Happy Year of the Ox to Spices of Lifers !!

Nina

Click here for Beef Stew with Anise recipe