Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 Granny Smith apple, cored and cubed
1/4 cup chopped lemongrass (from 3 stalks)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 piece (1 inch) fresh ginger, sliced
1 fresh red finger chile, thinly sliced
3 whole star anise
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup tamari or regular soy sauce
3 tablespoons apple juice
1 tablespoon unseasoned rice-wine vinegar
1 tablespoon light-brown sugar
Preparation
Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add apple, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, chile, and star anise. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes.
Add the remaining ingredients, and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat, and let cool for 5 minutes before use.