Love Mochi

Soak the mochi in cold water and squeeze out any excess moisture

Insert a wooden skewer (specific for grilling) into each piece, on the side where it's not sticky. Reserve

Prepare the syrup: In a pan, combine the sugar, caramel, 1 cup of water, and red anise

Bring to a boil and let simmer until it reaches the hard-ball stage

Test by dropping a small amount of the syrup into cold water; if it forms a ball that holds its shape, it's ready

Dip one mochi at a time into the syrup and place on a greased surface to cool

Serve the same day or store the mochi in the refrigerator without covering

Best consumed within 4 days

Yields 6 units

462 calories per unit.