Spicy Wet Walnuts

Ingredients

• 2 cups walnut halves
• 3 dried chiles de árbol
• 1 small orange, zest removed in wide strips
• 3 whole star anise
• 2 cups pure maple syrup
• 1½ teaspoon kosher salt
• A heatproof 1-qt. jar

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Toast walnuts on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing once, until golden brown, 8–10 minutes; let cool.
2. Cook chiles, orange zest, and star anise in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, shaking pan constantly, until chiles are darkened and orange zest and star anise are fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add walnuts, maple syrup, salt, and ¼ cup water and bring to a simmer. Cook until liquid is slightly reduced, stirring occasionally, 8–10 minutes. Let cool slightly, then transfer to jar. Cover and chill at least 12 hours before using.
3. Do Ahead: Walnuts can be made 2 weeks ahead. Keep chilled.