Grapefruit, Ginger and Star Anise Compote

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh ginger
• 6 whole star anise
• 1/2 tbl grated grapefruit peel
• 6 medium sized grapefruits, sectioned

1. Bring water, sugar, ginger and star anise to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until mixture begins to thicken, about 10 minutes.

2. Stir in the grapefruit peel and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 30 minutes.

3. Place grapefruit sections in a large bowl. Remove the ginger from the syrup and discard. Pour hot syrup with star anise over grapefruit; let stand at room temperature for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

4. Cover and chill. Divide fruit and syrup among 6 small bowls; discard star anise. Serve compote chilled or at room temperature.

Tip: Leftover syrup makes a delicious sweetener for tea or water.