Tag: Cooking with star anise

Contamination with the highly toxic Japanese star anise is a serious risk that has led to adverse events, making careful sourcing essential for those who consume this spice regularly. Understanding this critical distinction is paramount when considering if it is safe to eat star anise every day.

The aromatic and beautifully shaped star anise pod is a staple in many cuisines, but its woody texture makes it inedible when whole. So, can you eat all parts of star anise? The answer is no, as the hard pod must be removed from dishes, though the spice is perfectly safe to consume in powdered form.

Over 3,000 years of traditional use in Asian cuisine has proven star anise to be a versatile spice, but surprisingly, people often ask: can you chew star anise seeds? While safe in small, culinary amounts, directly chewing the hard, potent seeds and pods is not advisable due to the risks of choking, accidental contamination with a toxic look-alike, and its overwhelming flavor.

As a cornerstone of Chinese five-spice powder and Vietnamese pho broth, star anise adds a distinctive licorice-like aroma that is both warm and complex. Here is how to properly use star anise in both sweet and savory dishes to unlock its full potential.