TRS Star Aniseeds 50g are premium whole star anise pods – one of the most distinctive and aromatic spices used in Indian, Chinese, and South-East Asian cooking. Recognisable by their beautiful eight-pointed star shape, these dried spice pods deliver a warm, intensely sweet, liquorice-like aroma and flavour that adds depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes. Made by TRS – one of the UK's most trusted South Asian food brands – TRS Star Aniseeds are carefully selected and packed to preserve their essential oils and full aromatic potency.
Star anise (known as Chakri Phool in Hindi) is an essential component of Indian biryani spice blends, garam masala, and chai masala, as well as the Chinese five-spice powder. Its bold, warming flavour makes it equally at home in savoury meat and rice dishes as it is in sweet preparations and spiced teas. TRS Star Aniseeds 50g gives you the perfect quantity for regular household use, keeping fresh and fragrant when stored correctly.
TRS Star Aniseeds 50g contains one pure ingredient:
No additives, preservatives, or artificial flavours. Always refer to the product packaging for the most accurate allergen and ingredient information. May be packed in a facility handling other spices and seeds.
TRS Star Aniseeds are sourced from China – the world's largest producer of star anise, responsible for over 80% of global supply. The Guangxi and Yunnan provinces of southern China are renowned for producing star anise with the highest essential oil content and most intense aroma. TRS ensures each batch is carefully selected and packed to preserve freshness and potency.
Add 1–2 whole TRS Star Aniseeds to the hot oil or ghee at the start of cooking, along with other whole spices (bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon). Allow them to sizzle for 30–60 seconds to release their aroma before adding onions and other ingredients. This forms the fragrant base of an authentic biryani or pulao.
Add whole star anise to slow-cooked meat curries, nihari, and korma during the early stages of cooking. The long cooking time allows the spice to infuse the dish with its warm, sweet flavour. Remove before serving as the pods are not meant to be eaten whole.
Add 1 whole TRS Star Aniseed to your chai pot along with cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon for a warming, aromatic spiced tea. Star anise adds a subtle sweetness that reduces the need for added sugar.
Dry roast TRS Star Aniseeds 50g along with other whole spices (coriander, cumin, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, black pepper) until fragrant, then grind into a fresh homemade garam masala. Freshly ground garam masala is far more aromatic than pre-ground versions.
Star anise is a key component of Chinese five-spice powder and is essential in Vietnamese pho broth, Chinese red-braised pork (hong shao rou), and Taiwanese braised dishes. Add to broths and braises at the beginning of cooking for deep, complex flavour.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Whole star anise retains its potency for up to 2–3 years when stored correctly. Avoid grinding until needed to preserve maximum aroma.