Star Anise

Star Anise from Kerala, India.

Star anise holds a cherished place in Kerala's culinary heritage, prized for its distinctive liquorice-like warmth and aromatic complexity. This spice is fundamental to Kerala's traditional masalas and curries, where it imparts subtle sweetness and depth to both vegetarian and meat-based dishes. Cultivated primarily in the high-altitude regions of the Western Ghats, particularly around Idukki and Wayanad districts, Kerala's star anise thrives in the region's cool, misty climate and nutrient-rich soil. The spice's cultivation reflects generations of agricultural expertise, with farmers employing sustainable practices passed down through families. Kerala's star anise is celebrated for its superior quality and potent flavour profile, making it a cornerstone of authentic Kerala spice blends and a testament to the region's enduring spice trade legacy.