Star Anise is used extensively in Asian cooking. It is the fruit of a small tree native to southern China and Southeast Asia. It tastes of licorice, but is more subtle, yet pungent, warm, and sweet. It is most often used to flavor pork and poultry dishes. One star will suffice for an entire duck or chicken. Star Anise is an essential ingredient of Chinese Five Spice and of Vietnam"s classic beef noodle soup, pho. Add INDIA TREE Star Anise to liquid for poaching fruit such as cherries and pears; add to marinades for pork, beef, and chicken; include it in braising liquids for slow-cooking meats and stews; steep with other spices in apple cider or tea; simmer in slow cooking stocks and stews.