Can You Eat Star Anise Pods?

Star anise pods are one of the most eye-catching items in any spice selection, and they offer a stellar flavor to match their good looks. These small spice pods are instantly recognizable for their namesake starry shape. The earthy, licorice-like flavor of star anise pods plays a starring role in all kinds of delightful dishes, from Vietnamese pho to Chinese tea eggs, a more exciting alternative to hard-boiled eggs. However, these gorgeous pods are quite literally too pretty to eat.

Whole star anise pods themselves are not edible and should be removed from a dish before serving. Although the pods are not poisonous, they are inedible because they do not soften during the cooking process. As such, they are too hard to eat, and, if eaten, they would likely have an unpleasant woody texture. However, the fragrant pods are perfectly safe to consume in powdered form. Ground star anise is typically made by grinding up whole pods and is an essential element of two of the world's favorite spice blends, garam masala and traditional Chinese five-spice powder. 

Star anise pods are similar to bay leaves in that they are added to a dish while it is cooking, providing an extra layer of fragrant complexity. However, while some question whether adding bay leaves truly makes a difference to a dish, there's no debating the impact of star anise pods – this pretty and petite spice packs a punch. Adding the pods to a simmering dish for too long can have overly pungent results, so when cooking with star anise pods it's wise to remember that sometimes less is more. The good news is that a small pack of star anise pods like this 4-ounce pack of 52USA Whole Star Anise will go a long way in the kitchen.

In the correct dose, star anise pods bring a delightful earthy flavor often compared to cloves, licorice, or fennel. Star anise pods pair particularly well with meat, onion, and citrus, but the herbal and earthy spice can add a lovely layer of fragrant flavor to a wide range of sweet and savory preparations (and even boozy beverages like the trendy chai-tini cocktail, an alternative to the espresso martini). The easiest way to cook with star anise pods is to add them to any dish that involves simmering liquid, from stews and sauces to braises and broths. Chuck in a pod while the dish is cooking and let it do its infusing magic. Just be sure to remove the pod before you tuck into your meal.