You could finish the ribs off on a barbecue instead of the oven if you prefer. Place the ribs in a large, wide saucepan. Cover with water and add the onion, garlic, fennel seeds and star anise.

works just as well with grilled pork, chicken, or fish. Sometimes I'll add raw cucumbers at the end; sometimes I'll cut the onions into rings and grill them. And if you have leftover steak ...