Anice Stellato

The star-shaped fruit of this Oriental plant, quite unrelated to aniseed, produces seeds which have an intense aniseed flavour - about 20 times as strong as aniseed itself. Because of its potency, it is imported for use in the preparation of liqueurs like Sambuca, as well as in the confectionery and pharmaceutical industries. The ground seeds are an ingredient of Chinese five-spice powder, so popular in Asian duck and pork dishes.