Key facts
| Hindi name | Chakri phool |
|---|---|
| Also called | Badian |
| Flavour | Sweet and liquorice-like. |
| Heat | No heat |
| Sold as | Whole pods |
| Stays fresh | Whole: 1 year · check your jars |
| Best substitute | A pinch of fennel or anise seed. |
| Used in | 3 of our blends and 3 of our dishes |
How to use it
Used whole in biryani, pulao and some garam masala blends, especially in Hyderabadi and Bengali cooking.
- One star is enough for a large pot of rice.
Substitute
A pinch of fennel or anise seed.
Storage
Whole stars keep for a year or more.
Star anise comes from an evergreen tree native to China and Vietnam.
Pairs well with
Dishes that use star anise
Blends with star anise
Biryani masala
Hyderabad and Lucknow
A fragrant blend with more floral spices than garam masala: mace, nutmeg, star anise and rose.
Chettinad masala
Tamil Nadu
A peppery, aromatic blend from the Chettinad region, with stone flower and kapok buds.
Frequently asked questions
What is star anise called in Hindi?
Chakri phool. Also known as Badian.
What can I use instead of star anise?
A pinch of fennel or anise seed.
How long does star anise keep?
Whole stars keep for a year or more.
Tips from travellers
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Questions from readers
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