Star Anise Powder

STAR ANISE 

History and Curiosities

Anise entered the life of man since ancient times. Arriving early in both Greece and Rome, anise seeds were used to flavor dishes based on chicken, pork, vegetables and included them among the ingredients of a sweet ritual strongly spicy. Characterized by a strong flavor and a unique aroma, anise has an oily substance, anethole, inside.  

The term "anisum" dates back to Greek terms that mean "to excite" or "to flare up", in fact the Romans used to use anise seeds to promote digestion after sumptuous banquets. 

On the other hand, the Latins also used this plant in the medical field. Anise is in fact characterized by having a large number of beneficial properties, in some cases also remarkably useful for the human body. 

Properties and Benefits

These small seeds with an unmistakable scent are rich in essential oil with anethole, a compound widely used in pastry and for the production of drugs. 

Anise seeds are seeds also rich in vitamins, in fact there are vitamins of group A, B and C, including the important B6. The latter vitamin is essential for the protection of the central nervous system. 

Anise is also known for its refreshing action, therefore excellent in case of infections of the upper respiratory tract, for swelling or burning due to sudden irritations. The taste and refreshing essence of anise are often indicated for the treatment of sore throat, headache or even to facilitate digestion, just as the ancient Romans used to do. Anise seeds mixed with other balsamic or citrus essential oils, are ideal for preparing alcoholic or non-alcoholic mouthwashes, ideal for combating bad breath. 

Recipes 

Wine donuts with anise seeds 

Simple biscuits to make, light and fragrant. With an unmistakable scent, donuts with anise seeds can be enjoyed at the end of a meal or soaked in wine. 

  INGREDIENTS

- Flour 00: 500g

- Seed oil: 125 ml

- White wine: 135 ml

- Fine salt: qb

- Anise seeds: 1 tablespoon 

- Baking powder 

- Sugar: 150 g 

PREPARATION

Turn on the oven at 180 ° so as to make it heat and start preparing your dough.

Sift the flour with salt and baking powder and at the same time leave the anise seeds to soften in the wine.

Then add the sugar to your dough and add the oil and wine with the anise seeds inside. Knead the dough in a compact and homogeneous way.  Then slowly start to divide the dough into small balls and try to give a round shape with the palms of your hands. Once you have your donuts, dip them in sugar and place them on the baking sheet. Bake everything and cook for 25-30 min. 

Excellent hot but also cold, store your wine donuts in an airtight container. 

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Anise has no particular contraindications but its intake must always be well tolerated. Given the presence of furocoumarins, anise can be photosensitizing: it is therefore not recommended to take it to those who already suffer from little possibility of exposure to light. It is always recommended to seek medical advice before taking large amounts of advice. 

HOW TO STORE ANISE SEEDS

It is advisable to store anise seeds tightly closed, in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight or other heat sources.