- 2 cups water
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 whole star anise
- 2 teaspoons orange flower water
- 6 large oranges
- Fresh mint sprigs
- A brown star-shaped seed pod found at Asian markets and specialty food stores; nice as a garnish, but it should not be eaten.
- A flavoring extract available at liquor stores and in the liquor or specialty foods section of some supermarkets.
- Combine first 3 ingredients in medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Simmer until liquid is reduced to generous 1 cup, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in orange flower water. Cover; chill until cold. Discard anise. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead.)
- Using small knife, cut off peel and white pith from oranges. Slice oranges crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick rounds. Set in bowls. Spoon syrup over. Top with mint.