Light Orange-blossom Oranges

Ingredients

 * 2 cups water
 * 1 cup sugar
 * 3 whole star anise
 * 2 teaspoons orange flower water -- optional
 * 6 large oranges
 * fresh mint

Directions

 * 1) Combine first 3 ingredients in medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolved. Simmer until liquid is reduced to generous 1 cup, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in orange flower water. Cover; chill until cold. Discard anise.
 * 2) The above syrup can be made 1 day ahead.
 * 3) Cut peel and pith from oranges with knife. Slice oranges crosswise into 1/3-inch rounds. Set in bowls. Spoon syrup over. Top with mint.
 * 4) Make day before or morning of.