Sate Beef Sticks

Soak 20 short wooden skewers in water for 1 hour to prevent them burning under the broiler. To make the marinade, add the ground aniseed, cumin, turmeric and coriander to the shallot, garlic, ginger, lemon grass and brown sugar in a medium bowl. Mix well and add the oil and soy sauce.

Thread a strip of beef onto each wooden skewer and place in a shallow dish. Thoroughly coat in the marinade and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.

FOR SAUCE: Put the garlic into a small saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 3 minutes, refresh under cold water, then drain and finely chop. Combine the garlic with the peanut butter, coconut milk and 1/4 cup water in a medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, or until smooth and thick, then add the Tabasco, honey, lemon juice and soy sauce. Stir until the sauce is warm and thoroughly blended. If the mixture starts to separate, stir in 1-2 teaspoons water. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Preheat a broiler or barbecue until hot. Cook the beef sate sticks for 1-2 minutes on each side, turning three or four times during the cooking. Once they are cooked, arrange on a plate and serve with the sate sauce.