Add the apples, star anise, Thai chili, ginger to a sauce pot and add water. Simmer on medium flame for 2-3 minutes until the apples begin to soften.
Add the brown sugar, salt, cinnamon powder and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Make a slurry with corn starch and two tablespoons water. Add it to the apple mixture, and simmer for two more minutes. Remove from the flame.
Heat oil in a pan, add the dried red chilies and mustard seeds. when it splutters add the split urad dal followed by curry leaves. Fry for 30 seconds and pour it into apple mixture. Transfer to serving bowl.
Crush the pink peppercorns.
Sprinkle on top and serve warm or at room temperature.