Star anise is a spice that is used in many different dishes. It has a licorice-like flavor and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. However, what do you do if you can’t find star anise or don’t have any on hand?
This blog post will provide a list of 10 substitutes for star anise. We’ll explain the differences and similarities between each one and give examples of how to use them.
So whether you’re out of star anise or just want to try something new, we’ve got you covered!
Substitutes for Star Anise
- Cinnamon
- Chervil
- Tarragon
- Anise Extract
- Allspice
- Cloves
- Caraway Seeds
- Fennel Seeds
- Chinese Five-Spice Powder
- Anise Seeds
Cinnamon
Cinnamon has a sweet, spicy, and woody flavor that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
It is a suitable substitute for star anise in sweet dishes such as pies, cakes, cookies, and sweet bread.
It can also be used in savory dishes such as stews, curries, and marinades.
When substituting cinnamon for star anise, use a 1:2 ratio of star anise to star anise. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of star anise, use 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
Keep in mind that cinnamon will add a sweet flavor and may change the flavor of the dish you’re making, so be sure to adjust other spices accordingly.
Chervil
You can use chervil in any recipe that calls for star anise, including soups, stews, and braised dishes.
Chervil has a similar flavor to star anise, so it will not drastically change the flavor of your dish.
However, it is milder than star anise, so you may need to use a little more to achieve the desired flavor.
Additionally, chervil does not have the licorice-like aftertaste that star anise does.
When substituting chervil for star anise, use a 1:2 ratio. This means that for every teaspoon of star anise, use two teaspoons of chervil.
Chervil is also easier to find compared to star anise. You can typically find it in the spice aisle of your local grocery store.
If you’re looking for a substitute for star anise in a recipe, chervil is a good option. Just be aware that it may change the flavor of the dish slightly.
Tarragon
Tarragon is one of the best substitutes for star anise. Not only does it have a similar flavor profile, but it’s also relatively easy to find.
In terms of benefits, tarragon is a great way to add a bit of sweetness to a dish without using sugar.
When substituting tarragon for star anise, you’ll want to use 1 teaspoon of tarragon for every 2 teaspoons of star anise.
As for recipes, tarragon is a great addition to chicken, fish, and veggie dishes. It’s also commonly used in soups and stews.
In terms of comparisons, tarragon is a bit sweeter than star anise but has a similar anise flavor.
The biggest difference is that tarragon is more fragrant than star anise.
Overall, tarragon is an excellent substitute for star anise and is sure to add a unique flavor to any dish.
Anise Extract
Anise extract is a concentrated form of the flavor that’s found in star anise, so it will give your dish the same licorice-like flavor.
You’ll only need about 1 teaspoon of anise extract for every 2 teaspoons of star anise that’s called for in a recipe.
Anise extract is a good substitute for star anise in both sweet and savory dishes.
It works particularly well in baked goods, such as cookies, cakes, and bread. It also goes well with meaty dishes, like stew or roast chicken.
Just keep in mind that your dish may have a slightly different flavor when made with anise extract instead of star anise as it’s very potent.
Allspice
You can use allspice in recipes that call for star anise, and it has a similar flavor profile.
Allspice is a spice made from the dried berries of the allspice tree. It is used in many cuisines, including the Caribbean, Latin American, and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Allspice is a versatile spice that can be used in sweet or savory dishes. It is commonly used in baking, as well as in savory dishes such as curries and stews.
When substituting allspice for star anise, use a 2:1 ratio. This means that for every 2 teaspoons of star anise, use 1 teaspoon of allspice.
Allspice has a strong flavor, so it is best to use it sparingly.
When substituting allspice for star anise, be aware that it will change the flavor of the dish slightly since allspice is sweeter and more pungent.
Cloves
Cloves have a similar shape to star anise and can be used as a replacement in many recipes.
They also have a slightly sweeter flavor than star anise and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
When substituting cloves for star anise, use a ratio of 2:1, meaning for every 2 teaspoons of star anise called for in the recipe, use 1 teaspoon of ground cloves.
When substituting cloves for star anise, keep in mind that they will give the dish a sweeter flavor.
Overall, cloves are a suitable substitute for star anise and can be used in many different recipes.
Caraway Seeds
Caraway seeds are an excellent substitute for star anise. Many people believe that they offer a more nuanced flavor profile than star anise.
Caraway seeds can be used in a wide variety of recipes, including bread, cakes, and cookies.
When substituting caraway seeds for star anise, you should use a 1:1/2 ratio. This means that for every teaspoon of star anise, use half a teaspoon of caraway seeds.
Keep in mind that caraway seeds will add a slight licorice flavor to whatever dish you’re making. If you’re not a fan of licorice, you may want to try another substitute.
However, if you’re looking for a unique twist on your favorite recipe, caraway seeds are worth a try.
Fennel Seeds
Fennel seeds can be used as a substitute for star anise in many recipes!
They have a very similar taste and aroma, making them perfect for use in things like stews, curries, and even baked goods.
Plus, fennel seeds offer several benefits that star anise does not. For example, they are a good source of fiber and minerals like calcium and magnesium.
What’s more, they have been shown to aid in digestion and even relieve gas and bloating.
So if you’re looking for a healthy and delicious alternative to star anise, fennel seeds are the way to go.
Just be sure to use them in a 1:2 ratio when substituting for star anise. This means that for every teaspoon of star anise, use two teaspoons of fennel seeds.
Chinese Five-Spice Powder
Chinese five-spice powder is the most obvious substitute for star anise.
This spice blend contains cloves, cinnamon, fennel, and Sichuan pepper. So it’s a good choice for stir-fries and other Chinese dishes.
You can usually find Chinese five-spice powder in the spice aisle of your local grocery store, making it a convenient option for home cooks.
When substituting Chinese five-spice powder for star anise, use 1 teaspoon of five-spice powder for every 2 teaspoons of star anise. This will ensure that the flavor of your dish is not altered.
Anise Seeds
Anise Seeds are a great substitute for star anise. I would argue that they’re even better than star anise!
Here’s why: first of all, anise seeds have a more pronounced flavor, so you don’t need to use them as much.
Second, they’re cheaper than star anise.
And third, they’re more widely available – you can find them in any grocery store.
So if you’re looking for a substitute for star anise, go with anise seeds.
Just use 1 teaspoon of anise seeds for every 2 teaspoons of star anise. You won’t be disappointed!
Conclusion
As you can see, there are several substitutes for star anise.
So if you can’t find star anise at your local grocery store, don’t worry – you can still make your favorite dish.
Just use one of the substitutes listed above. And be sure to experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance of flavor for your particular dish.
Bon appetite!