Black Cherry Iced Tea

I found the most wonderful Asian Food blog called Apetite for China. This recipes comes from Diana Kuan's kitchen. Check out more of her culinary delights at http://appetiteforchina.com/

Black Cherry Iced Tea

2 quarts water
1 pound fresh black cherries, rinsed and pitted
1 1/4 cups sugar
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 whole star anise
5 bags black tea, steeped in 2 cups water
Mint sprigs for garnish

Bring water to boil in a medium-sized pot. Add cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and star anise. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cherries are almost falling apart. Turn off heat, mix in black tea, and let stand for 1 hour to cool.

Strain liquid through a fine mesh sieve, mashing the cherries with a wooden spoon to extract more liquid. Discard solids. Transfer liquid to a pitcher and refridgerate until ready to serve.