Star Anise Black Beans

I was introduced to this dish by one of my Chinese neighbors.  Very simple and delicious.  Goes great as a side dish with a Som Tam salad.  Som Tam traditionally uses thinly sliced green papaya.  A great way to use up the other half of that green papaya!

1/2 green papaya, medium-sized
4 C black beans, cooked
3-4 points of star anise (about one-half of a star)
1 C water
Salt to taste

Peel papaya and cut into cubes.  Put all ingredients in a pot and bring to a boil.  Then reduce to low heat for 15 minutes.  Serve hot.

This dish also works well cooking at low heat for hours at a time.  Very flexible dish.  Enjoy!