Prep the Mushrooms:
- Clean the shiitake mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth. Remove the stems and slice the caps into even strips.
Infuse the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the star anise pods and toast them for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
Cook the Mushrooms:
- Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are golden and tender.
Add Garlic and Seasonings:
- Stir in the minced garlic, and cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Pour in the orange juice, zest, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to absorb the flavors and the sauce to slightly thicken.
Season:
- Remove from heat. Discard the star anise pods. Season the mushroom dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the mushrooms to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.