Star Anise
Star anise is a spice that comes from the fruit of an evergreen tree native to China and Vietnam. It gets its name from the star-shaped pod that contains small brown seeds. The flavor of star anise is sweet and licorice-like, with a warm and spicy aroma. Star anise is often used in Asian cooking, particularly in Chinese and Vietnamese cuisines, to add a distinctive flavor to soups, stews, sauces, and marinades. It's also a common ingredient in Chinese five-spice powder, a blend of spices that includes star anise, cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, and Szechuan peppercorns.
In addition to its culinary uses, star anise has been used in traditional medicine practices for centuries. It contains compounds that are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. Star anise is sometimes used to treat coughs, colds, and flu symptoms, and it's also used as a digestive aid to relieve bloating and gas. The oil extracted from star anise is sometimes used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety. However, it's important to note that star anise should be used in moderation, as high doses can be toxic and cause serious health problems.
Braised Pork Belly with Star Anise - Recipe
Ingredients:
• 1 pound pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2-3 whole TOP FOOD Star Anise
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and sliced
• 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger and sauté for a minute or two until fragrant.
2. Add the pork belly and stir until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the TOP FOOD Star Anise, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let the pork belly simmer, covered, for 1-2 hours or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice and vegetables.
The star anise adds a unique and fragrant flavor to the dish, complementing the richness of the pork belly. Enjoy!