Notes: Adding a small amount of room temperature oil to the chili mix prevents the dry ingredients from burning when the hot oil is added.
Notes: Rinsing the star anise in cold water helps keep it from burning during the frying step.
Notes: While frying, you may need to lower the heat to medium so the oil doesn't get too much hotter than 300°F (150°C).
Notes: Do not pour all the hot oil at once, as this will scorch and burn the chili mix.