It is a whole type "star anise" (octagon) that is often used in Chinese cuisine. It gets its name because it smells like licorice and a strong anise, although the seeds are actually different. It is an indispensable spice in the typical Chinese mixed spice "Five Spice Powder" made by mixing with cinnamon, cloves, fennel, etc. In India, it is used in Kashmir cuisine in the north, Chettinadu cuisine in the south, and western countries such as Goa. is often used in cooking. Due to its strong aroma, it is more commonly used in meat dishes than in vegetable dishes, but it goes well with vegetarian dishes that use plenty of dairy products such as paneer cheese and ghee. It's delicious even if you put it in chai! Star Anise Whole 20g