Sake-Sauteed Plums with Ginger and Star Anise

• 1/2 pounds (680 grams) plums, preferably Black Mission, quartered and pitted
• 1 1/3 cups (7 ounces/200 grams) packed light brown sugar
• One 1/2-inch piece fresh ginger, cut into 1/4-inch slices
• 3 whole star anise
• 2/3 cup (5.3 ounces/150 grams) sake
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Two 4-inch-long strips lemon zest (removed with a vegetable peeler)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Ginger-Rum Raisin Ice Cream or 1/2 cup creme fraiche, optional

1. Put all of the ingredients, except for the optional ice cream, into a large mixing bowl and stir well.
2. Cover and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours; do not let the mixture sit overnight.
3. Set a large deep skillet over high heat and heat for 3 minutes.
4. Add the plum mixture all at once and cook, stirring, until the alcohol burns off and the plums are just softened, about 4 minutes.
5. Remove from the heat and remove the ginger slices, star anise, and lemon zest.
6. You can also reserve the star anise and lemon zest for garnish, if desired.
7. Divide the plums among serving bowls, top with the ice cream, if desired, and serve.

black, brown sugar, ginger, star anise, sake, lemon juice, long strips lemon zest, salt, gingerrum

Taken from www.cookstr.com/recipes/sake-sauteacuteed-plums-with-ginger-and-star-anise (may not work)