Star anise is a licorice-flavored, star-shaped fruit grown in China, Vietnam and Japan that is picked before ripening, then dried as a spice. The flavor has a slightly bitter quality and is more potent than the regular anise seed more often used in the West

Crush or grind star anise using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder to create a fine powder to season dishes such as roasted potatoes or vegetables. Since star anise isn't a widely used spice in the United States, it can add an unexpected hint of sweetness to everyday dishes.