A Sniff of Star Anise

The rich, pungent smell of toasted star anise drifted straight into my nostrils, coaxing me all the way to the kitchen counter. I tramped over the smooth laminate until I found a sturdy glass jar resting among the seasonings, its metal lid loosely ajar. Climbing onto a folded cotton dish towel, I hoisted my heavy rake and tapped the tines against the glass rim to gauge its balance. Peering inside, I caught sight of dark, dried pods tucked neatly at the bottom. A tavern stew without these fragrant stars is hardly worth cooking. With a low chortle, I leaned my rake against the jar's neck, breathing deep and letting the peppery sweetness settle into my snout.