Be sure to respect the fruit and while peeling it, let the fruit tell you its shape. Cut in half to gently remove the pit or melon ball the center.
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8 to 10 pieces of fresh fruit (pealed and cut in half)
2 parts water
1 part sugar
vanilla bean
star anise
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1) Bring water and sugar to a simmer. Add the vanilla bean and the star anise.
2) Add fruit flat side up. Do not let the top of the fruit dry out.
3) Place parchment paper, which has been cut to vent steam, over the pan of fruit. This will form a tent. Allow to simmer for about ten minutes.
4) Remove from heat and allow to cool throughly. Store in liquid in the refrigerator overnight. The liquids may be used in other recipes or sauces so be sure to keep it.