Fragrant Cous Cous Salad

Fragrant Cous Cous Salad:
(serves 4)
2 cups cous cous
2 cups water
1 shallot, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 green onion, sliced thinly, white and green parts
½ c dried cranberries or white raisins
2 whole star anise
4 whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick
1 tsp ground cumin
Salt to taste
Olive oil

Directions:
Heat olive oil in a sauté pan, add shallot and garlic and cook until slightly softened, add star anise, cloves, cinnamon, cumin and salt and pepper. Add water and bring to a boil. Simmer for a few minutes to ensure water is infused with flavors.

Strain water into a medium saucepan. Bring back up to a boil, add cous cous and stir, remove from heat and let stand, covered, for about 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and add green onion and cranberry. Adjust salt to taste. Can be served warm or at room temperature.