Like other herbs and spices with the licorice note, star anise goes particularly well with high-fat meats including pork as well as goose, and duck. Chinese five spice powder — in which star anise plays a starring role — is often used in dishes containing these meats. Its flavor cuts through their fattiness. From Vietnamese pho and Chinese barbecue pork to poached pears and pineapple upside-down cake, star anise adds a warm and comforting flavor to dishes, including dinner and dessert! Most Made Today