Habet Hlawa (Algerian Anise Beverage)
Habet hlawa is an Algerian anise syrup that turns a handful of seeds into a sweet, licorice-scented drink. The seeds steep off the heat for half an hour, which draws out their flavor without bitterness. A second boil with sugar thickens the liquid, and you know it is ready when it runs from a spoon in a thin stream. Stir a little into icy water and serve.
Instructions
Pour the water into a saucepan, add the anise seeds, and bring to a boil over medium heat.
Turn off the heat, cover the pan, and leave the seeds to infuse for 30 minutes.
Strain the liquid to remove the seeds.
Stir in sugar to your taste and bring the liquid back to a boil over medium heat. Simmer until the syrup falls from a spoon in a thin stream.
Strain the syrup a second time so it is clear.
Let the syrup cool, then pour it into a bottle. To serve, dilute it with very cold sparkling or still water, whichever you prefer.
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