Star Anise Pods – Premium aroma for chai, pho, and baking

Star anise (Illicium verum) pods from trusted growers who pack them in small batches for a bold, sweet-spice aroma. Expect that classic licorice warmth that lifts chai, pho broth, mulled drinks, and pastry work.

🌿 What is it?

• Star-shaped pods with intact seeds. Food-grade and kitchen-ready.
• Flavor and aroma: sweet, warm, licorice-aromatic with soft spice.
• Naturally caffeine-free. Ideal for infusions, broths, and baking.

💚 Why choose Sacred Plant Co

• Carefully sourced from experienced growers for consistent, fragrant pods.
• Low-temperature drying protects delicate aromatics.
• Small-batch packing locks in freshness and reduces breakage.
• Nothing added. Pods only. No fillers.

🍳 How to use

1. Chai and spiced tea: Lightly crack 1–2 pods. Simmer with black tea, ginger, and cinnamon. Strain before serving.
2. Pho and broths: Toast briefly in a dry pan. Add to stock with onion and warm spices.
3. Pastry and syrup: Infuse pods in milk, cream, or simple syrup for custards, ice cream, and poached fruit.
4. Storage: Keep airtight, cool, and dark. Leave pods intact until use for best aroma.

❓ FAQs

What does star anise taste like?
Sweet, warm, and licorice-aromatic with a gentle spice finish that works in sweet or savory dishes.

Pods vs ground: what is better?
Pods keep aroma longer and are easy to strain from broths and syrups. Grind only what you need.

How do I boost flavor?
Lightly toast the pods for 30–60 seconds before simmering to open up the aroma.

Is this the same as anise seed?
Different plants with related flavor. Star anise is stronger and ideal for long infusions.

Is it caffeine-free?
Yes. Star anise contains no caffeine.

Any storage tips?
Seal tightly and keep away from light and heat. Pods retain aroma for months when stored well.

🤝 Pair with…

• Licorice Root — adds soft sweetness and roundness to chai and syrups.
• Ginger Root — bright heat that complements the deep anise profile.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine Herbs Collection

Related reading: Star Anise: The Celestial Spice of Eastern Mystique