In a saucepan bring all ingredients to a boil.
Reduce to medium-low heat and simmer, uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, until cranberries are bursting and soft enough to mash on the sides of the pan.
Stir the sauce occasionally. The sauce will be jam like when done.
Remove from the heat.
Carefully remove the Star Anise pods. Let the sauce cool and garnish with more orange zest and star anise. Serve at room temperature.
If you prefer a very smooth cranberry sauce, you can purée this in the blender, adding some water to thin out if necessary. Store in the fridge in an airtight container up to 10 days.