Star Anise and Soy Shredded Pork

In this take on pulled pork, star anise perfumes the pork with its warm, sweet fragrance, while soy sauce adds savory depth. To help lift the richness, we include a little vinegar—rice vinegar does nicely, but balsamic vinegar adds sweet notes that mimic Chinese black vinegar. Serve this over steamed rice, with lettuce leaves for wrapping or pile it onto buns and top with quick-pickled cucumbers.