Plums are delicious to snack on raw but simmering them in sugary spices elevates the humble plum to a luxurious treat. This is so simple to make and can be served warm with whipped cream as a dessert or added as a topping for porridge or muesli for breakfast.
In a medium saucepan, combine all the ingredients apart from the plums. Heat it over a medium flame to bring it to the boil.
Meanwhile, cut the plums in half and remove the stones. Add them to the saucepan once boiling, and stir them around so they're all nicely coated. Reduce the heat and allow to simmer for 3-5 minutes, until soft but not too soft e.g. if the plum pieces start to break up or go mushy, it's time to take the pan off the heat!
Remove from the heat and allow to cool.
Serve warm or refrigerate overnight and serve cold with breakfast.
6 large or 8 small plums
1 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1 Tbsp lemon juice
pinch of salt
1 stick of cinnamon
1 star anise