Don’t be fooled by the name - anise and star are completely different spices! Star anise is native to Vietnam and China, while anise comes from the Mediterranean and Southwest Asia. 

Despite their origins in different parts of the world, both spices have a liquorice-like flavour and are sometimes used interchangeably.

So let’s learn what are the differences between these two, how they are used, and how to substitute them.

Quick overview of the differences between anise and star anise:

Star Anise vs Anise: Appearance and Flavour Differences

The main flavour of both anise and star anise comes from a chemical compound called anethole. Because of this, the two spices are often used interchangeably in cooking.

The difference is that the flavour of star anise is stronger and warmer than anise. Anise on the other hand, is sweeter and fresher in taste.

Even though their flavours are so similar, anise and star anise look completely different. Anise looks like small brown seeds, often with a tiny ‘tail' attached to them. Star anise on the other hand is much bigger, with a rusty-brown colour, and has the shape of a star.

Can I use anise instead of star anise?

Star anise and anise seeds are often used interchangeably. This is because their main flavour note comes from the chemical compound called anethole. 

When substituting star anise for anise, you have to take into account that star anise is much stronger. For 1 whole anise star, use 1/2 tsp anise seeds.

Similarly, when substituting ground star anise with anise seeds, use 2:1 ratio. This means 1 tsp of star anise substitutes 1/2 tsp of ground anise.

Culinary Uses

Star anise and anise are similar in flavour, even though they come from different parts of the world. 

Star anise is a very popular ingredient in Asian cuisines, it is one of the ingredients in the famous five-spice powder. It is a popular ingredient in herbal teas, cocktails, and slow-cooked savoury dishes. Star anise is often combined with regular anise and cloves.

Anise on the other hand, is more popular in European dishes and included in various alcoholic beverages. It apparently goes so well with watermelon, that in some countries people infuse watermelon with anise-flavoured alcohol. 

Here is a comparison of the most common uses of anise and star anise:

Star anise is sometimes even used to steep coffee, to enrich its flavour. In many cases when used whole, it can be reused.

Health benefits

Star anise and anise seeds are not only famous for their culinary uses. They are also well-known for their beneficial effects on the digestive system and for other potential benefits.

In fact, star anise is important in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of shikimic acid, used for making Tamiflu. 

Since we are talking about the health benefits of star anise, I must underline that star anise must not be confused with Japanese star anise! Japanese star anise is toxic and inedible!

In the Netherlands, anise seed is part of a traditional treat, served when a baby is born. This is because anise is said to increase milk production in breastfeeding women and help restore the uterus to its normal size.

Both star anise and regular anise are used for the making of digestive tea. This tea is said to soothe stomach discomfort and prevent bloating.

Despite all its potential health benefits, consuming too much star anise can lead to some unwanted side effects, and even be toxic!

Wrap up

• Star anise and anise are in many cases used interchangeably.

• When it comes to using star anise, remember that “less is more”. It is easy to add too much and ruin the dish.

• The main flavour in both spices, comes from a chemical compound called anethole.

• Both spices are used for making herbal teas, mostly to help with digestive issues.

• Make sure you don’t confuse star anise with Japanese star anise, which is toxic!