Sweet spiced roast beef

1 lightly packed cup (160g) brown sugar
1 1/4 cups (165g) sea salt
3 star anise
1 1/2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger 
3 garlic cloves, chopped
Grated zest of 2 lemons
2 long red chillies, seeds removed, sliced
1/2 cup (125ml) soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1kg piece beef eye fillet (centre cut), trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil

Good‐quality chutney, to serve 

  1. Combine all ingredients, except beef and olive oil, in a shallow dish. Add beef and turn to coat in the marinade. Cover and chill for at least 12 hours, turning the beef in the marinade 2‐3 mes.

  2. Bring the beef to room temperature and preheat the oven to 200°C.

  3. Rinse beef under cold water and pat dry. Heat oil in an ovenproof frypan over medium‐high heat. Brown the beef for 2‐3 minutes on all sides, then transfer to oven for 15 minutes for rare, or un l cooked to your liking. Rest beef for 10 minutes. Slice and serve with chutney.