Star Anise / அன்னாசி மொக்கு

Star anise is the seed pod from the fruit of the Illicium verum plant, he star anise pod, which is shaped like a star (hence its name), has an average of eight points, each containing a single pea-sized seed. Both the seeds and the pod are used in cooking and contain the sweet, potent anise flavor. Star anise has a very strong, distinct flavor that is warm, sweet, and spicy, similar to licorice, fennel seed, clove, and anise seed, of course. Although the flavor of star anise is generally thought of as sweet, it is commonly used in savory dishes. Star anise is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C which help against diabetes and early signs of aging. It has also been shown to improve digestion, reducing bloating and gas, indigestion, and constipation.