Saute Onion and Herbs: Add in sliced onions and minced shallot, then saute for 3 minutes. Add in minced garlic, sliced ginger, lemongrass, 3 star anise, 3 cloves, 2 bay leaf, 1 stick cinnamon, and ½ tsp fennel seeds, then saute for another minute. Add in 3 tbsp (50ml) tomato paste, then saute for another minute.