Braised Brisket with Dried Fruit

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

Finely grind star anise in a spice grinder or with a mortar and pestle. Transfer to a small bowl and stir in cocoa, sumac, pepper and cinnamon.

Season brisket with salt and 2 tablespoons of the spice blend. Heat oil in a large ovenproof pot over high heat. Add the brisket and cook until browned, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer the brisket to a plate.

Reduce heat to medium, add onions to the pot and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 10 minutes. Add garlic, apricots, cranberries, prunes, raisins, orange wedges and the remaining spice blend. Cook, stirring often, for 3 minutes more. Stir in broth and bring to a simmer. Return the brisket to the pot.

Cover the brisket with a piece of parchment paper and put the lid on the pot. Transfer to the oven and bake until the brisket is fork-tender, about 3 1/2 hours.

Transfer the brisket to a clean cutting board. Loosely cover with foil and let rest for 10 minutes. Slice the brisket against the grain and serve with the sauce.