Recipe - Oranges And Figs In Spiced Red Wine

2 cup Red wine
1 cup Sugar

TIED IN CHEESECLOTH
1 Piece Cinnamon stick (1"
long); tiedtogether with
4 Star anise; tied together
with
4 Cardamom pods; tied together
with
2 Whole cloves
6 lg Navel oranges; peeled, pith
removed and halved
lengthwise
12 Dried figs; halved
1/3 cup Walnuts or pistachios;
chopped

Combine the wine, sugar and bouquet garni in a saucepan large enough to
contain the oranges and figs in a single layer. Bring to a simmer, covered,
over moderate heat. Add the figs and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the oranges
and turn them for 3 to 4 minutes, turning them so they cook evenly. Turn
the heat off and let the oranges and figs cool in the syrup. Remove fruit
to a serving bowl. Reduce the syrup by half and let cool. Discard bouquet
garni and spoon syrup over figs and oranges. Garnish with walnuts or
pistachios if you wish This recipe yields 6