18 Delicious Star Anise Recipes for Every Occasion

Welcome to a world where star anise shines in every dish! Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, indulging in seasonal favorites, or craving some comfort food, we’ve got you covered. Our roundup of 18 Delicious Star Anise Recipes is your ticket to transforming ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary adventures. Ready to spice things up? Let’s dive in!

Star Anise Infused Chicken Curry

Warm up your kitchen with this aromatic Star Anise Infused Chicken Curry, a dish that brings a cozy twist to your weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 star anise pods
• 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 large onion, thinly sliced, and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in 4 garlic cloves, minced, 1 tbsp grated ginger, and 2 star anise pods. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add chicken thighs and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in 1 can coconut milk, 2 tbsp curry powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp sugar. Stir well to combine.
5. Add 1 cup chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

The star anise adds a subtle licorice note that elevates the curry’s depth, making it a standout dish that’s as flavorful as it is comforting.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the star anise pods in a dry pan for a minute before adding them to the dish.

Vietnamese Pho with Star Anise

There’s nothing quite like the aromatic allure of Vietnamese Pho, especially when it’s infused with the warm, licorice-like notes of star anise. This recipe brings the essence of Vietnam right to your kitchen, with a broth that’s both comforting and complex.

Ingredients

• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 (3-inch) piece ginger, sliced
• 3 star anise pods
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 cloves
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 8 oz rice noodles
• 1/2 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring the beef broth to a simmer over medium heat. Add the onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Let simmer for 20 minutes to infuse the broth with spices.
2. Stir in the sugar, fish sauce, and salt. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, then strain the broth to remove the solids.
3. Meanwhile, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and divide among serving bowls.
4. Top the noodles with the thinly sliced beef sirloin. Ladle the hot broth over the beef and noodles; the heat will cook the beef to perfection.
5. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, lime wedges, and jalapeño slices if desired.

The magic of this Pho lies in the star anise-infused broth, which delivers a depth of flavor that’s both exotic and familiar. It’s a bowl that promises warmth with every sip.

Tip: For an even richer broth, char the onion and ginger under a broiler for 5 minutes before adding them to the pot.

Star Anise and Cinnamon Spiced Tea

Warm up your evenings with this aromatic Star Anise and Cinnamon Spiced Tea, a soothing blend that’s as simple to make as it is delightful to sip.

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 2 star anise pods
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add 2 star anise pods and 1 cinnamon stick to the boiling water. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the spices.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully dissolved.
4. Strain the tea into cups, discarding the spices, and serve warm.

The magic of this tea lies in the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with the vanilla adding a smooth finish that elevates the traditional spice tea experience.

Tip: For an extra cozy touch, serve with a thin slice of orange or a splash of milk.

Braised Pork Belly with Star Anise

There’s something irresistibly comforting about braised pork belly, especially when it’s infused with the warm, aromatic notes of star anise. This recipe is a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for those days when you crave something deeply flavorful yet simple to make.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, sliced
• 2 star anise
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the pork belly and cook until all sides are browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic, sliced ginger, and star anise to the pot. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Remove the star anise before serving. Serve hot over steamed rice.

The magic of this dish lies in the slow braising process, which transforms the pork belly into melt-in-your-mouth bites, while the star anise adds a subtle licorice-like depth that’s utterly captivating.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a splash of rice wine or a cinnamon stick during the braising process.

Star Anise Glazed Carrots

Transform ordinary carrots into a fragrant, sweet-and-spicy side dish with this Star Anise Glazed Carrots recipe. It’s a simple way to add a touch of elegance to your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 whole star anise
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the carrots and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1/2 cup water, 2 whole star anise, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
4. Uncover and increase heat to medium-high. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the liquid reduces to a glossy glaze.
5. Remove the star anise before serving.

The star anise infuses the carrots with a subtle licorice flavor, while the glaze adds a beautiful sheen and sweetness that’s irresistible.

Tip: For an extra pop of color and flavor, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Chinese Five Spice Powder with Star Anise

Unlock the secret to authentic Chinese flavors with this homemade Chinese Five Spice Powder, starring the aromatic star anise as its centerpiece.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons ground star anise
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons ground star anise, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 teaspoon ground fennel seeds, and 1 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns.
2. Whisk the spices together until fully blended, ensuring no clumps remain.
3. Store the mixture in an airtight container away from direct sunlight to preserve its vibrant flavors.

This blend is a game-changer for dishes needing a depth of flavor, from marinades to rubs, thanks to the star anise’s licorice-like sweetness balanced by the warmth of cinnamon and the kick of Sichuan peppercorns.

Tip: For an even more aromatic experience, lightly toast the whole spices before grinding them.

Star Anise and Orange Biscotti

These Star Anise and Orange Biscotti are a delightful twist on the classic Italian cookie, offering a fragrant blend of citrus and spice that’s perfect for dunking in your favorite coffee or tea.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp whole star anise, lightly crushed

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat 3/4 cup sugar with 2 large eggs until light and fluffy. Stir in 1 tbsp orange zest and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined. Fold in 1 tbsp whole star anise.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each into a log about 12 inches long. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes, until firm to the touch.
6. Let cool for 10 minutes, then slice diagonally into 1/2-inch pieces. Lay the slices cut side down and bake for another 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

The star anise adds a subtle licorice note that pairs beautifully with the bright orange zest, creating a biscotti that’s as aromatic as it is crunchy.

Tip: For an extra glossy finish, brush the logs with an egg wash before the first bake.

Beef Stew with Star Anise

Warm up your kitchen with this deeply flavorful Beef Stew with Star Anise, a dish that marries tender beef with the aromatic spice for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 star anise pods
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove beef and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste and flour, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually add beef broth, stirring to combine.
4. Return beef to the pot. Add star anise, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2 hours, until beef is tender.
5. Remove star anise pods before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

The star anise infuses the stew with a subtle licorice note, elevating the classic beef stew into something extraordinary.

Tip: For an even richer flavor, let the stew sit overnight in the fridge before reheating and serving.

Star Anise Poached Pears

Transform simple pears into an elegant dessert with the warm, spicy notes of star anise. This recipe is a breeze to make and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Ingredients

• 4 firm Bosc pears, peeled
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 whole star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 4 cups water, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 whole star anise, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 tbsp vanilla extract, and the juice of 1 lemon. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the peeled pears to the pot, ensuring they are fully submerged. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, until the pears are tender but still hold their shape.
3. Remove the pears from the liquid and set aside. Increase the heat to medium-high and boil the poaching liquid for 10-15 minutes until it reduces to a light syrup.
4. Serve the pears warm or chilled, drizzled with the reduced syrup. The star anise and cinnamon infuse the pears with a subtly spicy sweetness, making this dish a standout for any dinner party.

Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Star Anise and Gingerbread Cookies

These Star Anise and Gingerbread Cookies blend warm spices with a hint of licorice-like star anise, creating a festive treat that’s as aromatic as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground star anise
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup molasses

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground cloves, and 1/2 tsp ground star anise.
3. In a large bowl, beat 3/4 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 large egg and 1/3 cup molasses until combined.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, place on prepared baking sheets, and flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are set but centers are still soft. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

The ground star anise adds a subtle complexity to these cookies, making them stand out from traditional gingerbread with its unique, warming note.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze.

Star Anise Flavored Rice Pudding

Warm up your evenings with this comforting Star Anise Flavored Rice Pudding, a creamy dessert that brings a subtle spice to your table.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup white rice
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 whole star anise
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the white rice, whole milk, granulated sugar, star anise, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for about 45 minutes or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a pudding-like consistency.
3. Remove the star anise and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the pudding sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly before serving.

The star anise infuses the pudding with a delicate licorice flavor, making it a standout dish that’s both familiar and intriguingly different.

Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few edible flowers before serving.

Star Anise and Clove Mulled Wine

Warm up your winter evenings with this aromatic Star Anise and Clove Mulled Wine, a festive drink that fills your home with the comforting scents of the season.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 orange, sliced
• 3 whole star anise
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, water, honey, orange slices, star anise, cloves, and cinnamon stick.
2. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil. This should take about 5 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the wine simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and strain the mulled wine into mugs, discarding the solids.

The subtle licorice note from the star anise pairs beautifully with the deep warmth of cloves, creating a mulled wine that’s both complex and comforting.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, garnish each mug with a fresh orange slice or a cinnamon stick before serving.

Star Anise Scented Plum Sauce

Transform your dishes with this aromatic Star Anise Scented Plum Sauce, a perfect blend of sweet and spicy that elevates any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups plums, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 whole star anise
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the plums, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup water, and 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add 1 whole star anise, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
3. Let the sauce simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the plums break down and the sauce thickens.
4. Remove the star anise and discard. Use a blender to puree the sauce until smooth, if desired.

The star anise infuses this plum sauce with a warm, licorice-like aroma, making it a standout condiment for grilled meats or a glaze for desserts.

Tip: For a chunkier texture, skip the blending step and enjoy the rustic feel of whole plum pieces in your sauce.

Star Anise and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Dive into the exotic flavors of this Star Anise and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, a creamy delight that combines warm spices with the classic sweetness of vanilla.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
• 4 whole star anise pods
• 5 large egg yolks
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, the seeds from 1 vanilla bean, and 4 whole star anise pods. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm and the sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together 5 large egg yolks and 1/4 teaspoon salt until pale and thick.
3. Strain the cream mixture to remove the star anise pods. Slowly whisk the warm cream into the egg yolks to temper them.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
6. Churn the chilled custard in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze until firm, about 4 hours.

The star anise adds a subtle licorice-like warmth that beautifully complements the rich vanilla, making this ice cream a standout dessert for any occasion.

Tip: For an extra aromatic touch, toast the star anise pods lightly before adding them to the cream mixture.

Star Anise Roasted Duck

Transform your dinner into a fragrant feast with this Star Anise Roasted Duck, a dish that marries the bold flavors of star anise and soy sauce for a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

• 1 whole duck (about 5 lbs), patted dry
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 3 whole star anise
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 cups water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce and honey.
2. Rub the duck inside and out with the salt and black pepper. Place the star anise and orange slices inside the duck’s cavity.
3. Brush the duck all over with the soy sauce and honey mixture. Place the duck on a rack in a roasting pan and add the water to the bottom of the pan.
4. Roast for 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices, until the skin is crispy and the duck is cooked through.
5. Let the duck rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the pan juices drizzled over the top.

The star anise infuses the duck with a subtly sweet and licorice-like flavor, while the honey gives the skin an irresistible glaze. It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to pull off.

Tip: For extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 425°F for the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Star Anise and Cardamom Hot Chocolate

Warm up your winter evenings with this aromatic Star Anise and Cardamom Hot Chocolate, a cozy twist on the classic that’s sure to delight your senses.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 whole star anise
• 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• A pinch of salt
• Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, and granulated sugar. Whisk over medium heat until the cocoa and sugar are fully dissolved.
2. Add the vanilla extract, whole star anise, lightly crushed green cardamom pods, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
3. Continue to heat the mixture over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot but not boiling. The spices will infuse the liquid with their flavors.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Strain the hot chocolate through a fine mesh sieve to remove the star anise and cardamom pods.
5. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for an extra special touch, if desired.

The star anise and cardamom add a subtly spicy depth to this hot chocolate, making it a luxurious treat that stands out from the ordinary.

Tip: For an even richer flavor, let the hot chocolate sit for a few minutes after straining to allow the spices’ aromas to meld beautifully.

Star Anise and Lemon Shortbread

These Star Anise and Lemon Shortbread cookies are a delightful twist on the classic, offering a fragrant spice and a zesty citrus note in every buttery bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon finely ground star anise
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon finely ground star anise, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until the dough comes together.
4. Roll the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
7. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

The star anise adds a warm, licorice-like depth that pairs beautifully with the bright lemon, creating a shortbread that’s anything but ordinary.

Tip: For an extra glossy finish, brush the cooled cookies with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.

Star Anise Infused Syrup for Cocktails

Elevate your cocktail game with this aromatic Star Anise Infused Syrup, a simple yet transformative addition to your home bar.

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 whole star anise pods

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved.
2. Add 5 whole star anise pods to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the syrup with the star anise flavor.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature. Once cooled, strain out the star anise pods.
4. Transfer the syrup to a clean bottle or jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

The star anise lends a warm, licorice-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with bourbon or rum, making this syrup a must-have for crafting sophisticated cocktails at home.

Tip: For a stronger anise flavor, let the syrup steep with the star anise pods for an additional 5 minutes before straining.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 star anise recipes inspires your next culinary adventure! From cozy dinners to festive gatherings, there’s something for every occasion. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article to your Pinterest board for easy access. Happy cooking!