[strangerachael]

I've bought some star anise, intending to add some to my jam/sauce/cordial/whatever, and I'm just wondering how many stars I should put in, say, per lb of blackcurrants, so that you can taste it but it's not too overpowering. Also, should I crush them up at all or just throw them in whole?

[LotuSeed]

I'd leave the stars whole and take them out once the jam is cooked. The flavor might intensify too much with time if left in the jar. I found a recipe for plum jam flavored with star anise and I think it called for 2 or 3 stars.

[Mrs Bee]

Definitely leave them whole and fish them out after you have made the jam etc.

I have used them at a ratio of 1 or a half to a pound as it is a very strong flavour.

Blackcurrant curd with star anise is lovely.

[strangerachael]

Thanks for your advice. Now all I need it is for it to stop raining long enough to pick some blackcurrants!

[sunshineband]

Thank you --nice idea to add star anise and it will make this year's jam taste different