Active Time

　　30 min

　　Total Time

　　3 1/2 hr

　　Like cinnamon in this country, cardamom plays a starring role in Algerian sweets. Paired with star anise in a gingery syrup, it gives clementine slices an irresistible aroma, but the syrup would be just as wonderful over any kind of sliced fruit.

　　

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

　　1 1/2 cups water

　　1 cup sugar

　　1/4 cup thinly sliced peeled ginger

　　4 green cardamom pods

　　3 whole star anise

　　6 clementines or mandarin oranges

　　1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)

　　

Step 1

Bring water, sugar, ginger, cardamom, and star anise to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar has dissolved, then simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, 10 minutes.

　　

Step 2

Remove from heat and let steep, covered, 15 minutes. Strain syrup through a sieve into a bowl, discarding solids. Chill, covered, until cold, at least 2 hours.

　　

Step 3

Cut peel from clementines, including all white pith, with a sharp knife, then cut fruit into 1/4-inch-thick rounds and put in a serving bowl. Add syrup and chill, covered, at least 1 hour. Just before serving, sprinkle with pomegranate seeds (if using).