In a nonreactive saucepan, combine 4 cups of water with the sugar, cinnamon, and anise seeds. Bring slowly to a boil over medium heat, stirring to melt the sugar. Stir in the coffee, remove from the heat, cover and allow to steep for 5 minutes. In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium-high heat and whisk until frothy. Do not leave unattended. Strain the coffee through a fine sieve into small cups and serve immediately, with the frothed milk on the side.
c.1997, M.S. Milliken & S. Feniger, all rights reserved