Sternanis, ganz

The aroma that filled my kitchen when I opened the bag was incredible, and just a couple of whole pods gave my pho broth that warm, sweet depth I’d been missing. They’re much larger and more fragrant than the stale ones I’ve picked up at the supermarket.

I've been using these star anise in my pho broth, and the whole pods release a warm, sweet licorice note that really deepens the flavor. They're perfectly dried and intact, making them easy to fish out after simmering.

I used these in a beef pho broth and the licorice-like sweetness really came through without being overpowering. The pods are intact and fragrant, which is exactly what I wanted for slow-simmering. Just wish the bag was a bit bigger for the price.