Star Anise

STAR ANISE

History and Curiosities

Anise entered human life from the earliest times. Arriving early in both Greece and Rome, anise seeds were used to flavor chicken, pork, and vegetable dishes and included them among the ingredients of a strongly spiced ritual dessert. Characterized by a strong flavor and unique aroma, anise has an oily substance, anethole, within it.

The term "anisum" goes back to Greek terms meaning "excite" or "blaze," in fact the Romans used to use anise seeds to aid digestion after sumptuous banquets.

On the other hand, however, the Latins also used this plant medicinally. Indeed, anise is characterized as having a large number of beneficial properties, in some cases even remarkably useful for the human body.

Properties and Benefits

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

Anise seeds are also rich seeds in terms of vitamins; in fact, vitamins A, B and C are present, 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, thus excellent in cases of infections of the first respiratory tract, for swelling or burning due to sudden irritation. The refreshing flavor and essence of anise, are often indicated for the treatment of sore throats, headaches or even to aid 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 nonalcoholic mouthwashes, which are also ideal for combating bad breath.

Recipes

Wine doughnuts with anise seeds

Simple to make, light and fragrant cookies. With an unmistakable fragrance, anise seed donuts can be enjoyed at the end of a meal or dunked in wine.

INGREDIENTS

- 00 flour: 500g

- Seed oil: 125 ml

- White wine: 135 ml

- Fine salt: qb

- Aniseed seeds: 1 tablespoon

- Baking powder

- Sugar: 150 g

PREPARATION

Turn on the oven to 180° so that it heats up and start preparing your dough.

Sift the flour with the 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 aniseed seeds inside as well. Knead the dough compactly and evenly. Then slowly start dividing the dough into small balls and try to give them a round shape with the palms of your hands. Once you have obtained your doughnuts, dip them in sugar and place them on the baking sheet. Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 min.

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

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Anise has no particular contraindications, but its intake should always be well tolerated. Due to the presence of furocoumarins, anise can be photosensitizing: therefore, its intake is not recommended for those who already suffer from poor light exposure. It is always recommended to seek medical advice before taking large qauntitives.

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.