Combine sugar, water, cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, star ansie pods, ginger, peppercorns, and fennel seeds in a small saucepan
Bring to a boil over medium-high, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves
Reduce heat to medium, and simmer 20 minutes
Remove from heat
Cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes
Pour through a fine wire-mesh strainer--discarding solids
Store in an airtight container in refrigerator up to 2 weeks