Everyone can see the pecans but you have 20/20 vision if you can spot the half-hidden star anise in under 14 seconds
A MISPLACED ingredient in a home cook’s recipe has left puzzlers scratching their heads.
Can you spot the half-hidden star anise among the pecans?
The challenge was shared on Reddit’s Find The Sniper forum, which has over 660,000 followers.
“Find the half piece of Star Anise,” the Redditor said, writing under the handle Su0091.
Everyone has experienced having a kitchen worktop that’s full of varying ingredients.
It’s easy to accidentally use the wrong spice without noticing the label.
How quickly can you spot the spice in the pile of nuts?
You’ll need 20/20 vision to solve the brainteaser in 14 seconds or less.
The similarity in shape and color makes it tricky to spot the difference between the ingredients.
Many puzzlers confessed their search took longer than necessary because they weren’t initially sure what star anise was.
The spice is typically used in cooking in China, India, and Middle Eastern countries.
“I approached this not knowing what a star anise is,” one person said.
“Once I saw it though I was like ohhhhhhh didn’t know that was the name lol.”
“It might help if I knew what Star Anise was! lol, but I’m guessing it’s the thing that’s not pecan-shaped in the top right section!” another wrote.
“I have never used star anise in any way/shape/form but somehow know what it looks like,” a third chimed in.
Here’s a hint: Star anise is star-shaped.
If you need more help, zoom in to the top right of the photograph.
Do you think you’ve finally solved the challenge?
Scroll down to the solution below to check if you guessed correctly.
A dark brown half-hidden star anise can be found among the pecans on the right of the image.
MORE BRAINTEASERS
The challenge comes after Redditor Raedcabello shared an equally mindboggling task on the same forum.
Can you spot the lost wedding ring among the rocks?
Set a timer to see if you can beat the 21-second record.
One person confessed they’d “lose my mind” if they lost their sentimental band in real life, while another joked about finding divorce papers.
However, others said they quickly solved the brainteaser after zooming into the photo.
Have you found the wedding ring yet?
Here’s a clue: Look for a gold band.
Once you’ve solved the challenge scroll to the solution below to check your answer.
A gold wedding ring can be found on top of the rocks toward the center of the photo.
A photo taken by a nature lover in Canada has also become a mind-bender.
Can you find the animal lurking among the trees?
You’ll need exceptional observation skills to find it in under 10 seconds.
At first glance, there appear to be branches pointing in every direction where an animal could hide.
The texture of the tree bark also plays tricks on the eyes.
Here’s a hint: Look for feathers.
If you’re still struggling, zoom into the middle of the photo.
Once you’ve solved the brainteaser scroll to the solution below to check your answer.
Benefits of brainteasers and optical illusions
Researchers have developed many tests to show how various brain regions react to brainteasers and optical illusions. There are many benefits.
- They are not only entertaining, but they also shed light on how our brains interpret visual data.
- By giving your brain a little workout regularly, you enhance your ability to focus and observe details.
- Studies have shown people who regularly challenge themselves with optical illusions and puzzles see big improvements in their problem-solving skills, concentration, and attention.
- Improved concentration and attention span can help prevent cognitive decline in old age.
- Optical illusions can improve eyesight by allowing you to see small print.