Organic Star Anise, whole pods

Ingredient: star anise (llicium verum) - also known as star aniseed, Chinese anise, Indian anise, or Badian anise (not to be confused with Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum) which is highly toxic and inedible) Country of Origin: Vietnam Star anise grows as a star shaped (usually eight-pointed) seed pod on an evergreen tree native to Northeast Vietnam and Southwest China. It has a flavor and aroma similar to anise and fennel seed yet a bit more pungent, spicy, bitter-sweet and licorice-like largely due to its content of the chemical compound anethole. Common use: Used in small amounts and added directly when cooking, star anise is the "secret" ingredient in many Asian dishes and teas. It can be found in the traditional Chinese five-spice powder, Indian masala spice blends, and is a major ingredient in the making of phở, a Vietnamese noodle soup. Unlike most spices, its flavor infuses effortlessly into water as well as fat-based liquids, is said to enhance the flavor of meat dishes, and works well in combination with cinnamon, chili powder, coriander, fennel, garlic, ginger, and lemon grass. It has also found application as a breath freshener and to preserve food from spoilage when added in its ground form.   Storage: Store in a cool, dark, dry place. This product has been packaged in the same facility as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, and soy products. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prt6event any disease.