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Fragrant anise adds a subtle sweetness to this warming stew. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Zinfandel or Pinot Gris.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) cubes
1 medium yellow onion, peeled and cut into 4 wedges
4 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
3½ cups chicken stock
1 whole star anise pod
1 large sweet potato (about 1½ pounds) peeled, cut into 1-inch-thick rounds, each cut into 4 wedges
2 large carrots, peeled and cut into ¼-inch-thick rounds
3 tablespoons flour, mixed with 3 tablespoons cold water
soy sauce

Directions:

Heat the vegetable oil in a wide 5- to 6-quart pot over medium heat until hot but not smoking.

Add the pork and brown for 3 minutes on each side. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook and stir for 3 minutes.

Add the chicken stock and anise. Turn the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 hours.

Add the potatoes and carrots. Uncover and simmer for 10 minutes.

Stir in the flour-and-water mixture and simmer for 10 minutes.

To serve, divide the stew among 4 to 6 bowls. Pass soy sauce at the table.

Suggested Pairings:

Danza del Sol Winery ~ 2014 Pinot Grigio – Aromas of honeysuckle and juicy pears with a hint of citrus lead into flavors of bright melon with a balanced, crisp acidity.

Leoness Cellars ~ 2013 Zinfandel – Rich and full-bodied, this wine offers aromas and flavors of sweet blackberry and plum with hints of spice and black licorice framed by soft tannins and a long, silky finish.

Maurice Car’rie Vineyard & Winery ~ 2012 Zinfandel – Aromas of raspberry jam, Red Delicious apples and finishes off with toasted black pepper.

Monte De Oro Winery ~ 2014 Pinot Gris – Off-dry-to-dry, medium-bodied wine with a nice balance of acidity, alcohol and flavor.

Recipe courtesy of the Wine Institute of California