Masalas are spices are integral parts of authentic Indian cuisine. They are either part of the seasoning or ground together for the flavoring masala. Among the popular Indian spices, especially in North India and East India, is the chakra phool or star anise. This spice and herb is a major contribution to various home made Indian sauces.
As part of a wet red, white or green masala, chakra phool or star anise is ground in the typical stone mortar along with the other ingredients. By the grinding process, the spice helps to create a great aromatic blend. It fits in well with masalas of all kinds, including those that are full of nuts, coconut or garlic. Chakra phool or star anise can also be added whole to the seasoning of any pulao or biryani.
It not only adds to flavor but also to the visual appeal of the dish. While in North India, star anise is mostly thrown in whole, in the east it is part of the freshly ground masalas. The spice is commonly used in a variety of meat and vegetable gravies that go with the staple, rice or roti. The spice is easily available in the whole or powdered form. It is used sparingly to retain distinct taste and flavor.
Chakra phool or star anise is known to treat a number of skin diseases and address digestion based problems. The fresh spice is either dried or powdered to flavor numerous dry dishes that are preferred with rotis. There is no hard and fast rule for the number of pods that can be used in particular recipes, the basic guidelines allow the chef to indulge in preference when using star anise. The spice is a good addition to desserts, as well as a number of garam masala powders that are freely used in sweets.
The use of chakra phool or star anise in seasoning speaks volumes for the versatility of the spice. The chaunk or tadka that is an integral part of Indian cooking involves wholesome use of spices like chakra phool or star anise along with kashmiri chillies, cumin seeds and curry leaves or karipatta. The spice is at its flavoring best when added to hot oil amd allowed to brown. This kind of tempering when poured over any lentil preparation or yogurt salads or raitas offers the food that extra zing. Indian food is so popular the world over because of the goodness of the spices and the base masalas.
Masalas are spices are integral parts of authentic Indian cuisine. They are either part of the seasoning or ground together for the flavoring masala. Among the popular Indian spices, especially in North India and East India, is the chakra phool or star anise. This spice and herb is a major contribution to various home made Indian sauces.
