Pronunciation of Star Anise
Next time you’re at a bar, ask your friend: “How do you say star anise?” They’ll say something. Then you drop the truth.
“Actually,” you say, “both ‘AN-iss’ and ‘a-NEES’ are correct. But the spice isn’t even anise!” You’ll sound like a genius.
Or a total nerd. Either way, you’ll be the most interesting person at the table.
Bonus fact: Star anise contains shikimic acid. That’s the key ingredient in Tamiflu. Yes, the flu medicine. You’re welcome.
Anise Pronunciation: Correct /ˈænɪs/ (AN-iss) Guide
How To Say It With Confidence
Here’s your cheat sheet. If you’re in the US, say “star AN-iss.” If you’re in the UK, say “star a-NEES.”
If you’re in a fancy restaurant? Say “star a-NEES” with a little French accent. It sounds expensive.
If you’re just cooking at home? Say it however you want. It’s your kitchen, your spice.
The only real wrong way is “star a-niece.” Unless you’re talking about your aunt from space.