Star anise is the dried, star-shaped fruit of Illicium verum. It is dark brown in colour with eight segments. It has a sweetish liquorice taste. It is a major component of garam masala, in Indian cuisine. It has a sweet but pungent, fennel-like aroma with a spicy warmth. Star anise traditionally is used in savory recipes, particularly with meats. The oil produced from star anise contains thymol, terpineol and anethole, which is used for treating cough and flu.
