Chinese 5 Spice

Chinese 5 Spice is a powder made from 5 spices. Actually more than 5 spices are sometimes used and there are several different recipes for Chinese 5 Spice.

Chinese 5 Spice is highly aromatic and was created to give food all of the 5 flavours, Bitter, Sweet, Salty, Sour and Pungent. Our recipe for Chinese 5 Spice uses Szechuan Peppercorns, Star Anise, Cloves, Cinnamon and Fennel seeds but you will also come across recipes using Cassia Bark in place of the Cinnamon, and Ginger or Nutmeg. Chinese 5 Spice should be used sparingly as the flavour can be overpowering.

Cantonese Duck is one of the many well known recipes that includes Chinese 5 Spice. Chinese 5 Spice can be used in stir fries, soups and stews as well as a rub for fatty meats.

Ingredients for Chinese 5 Spice

2 Tbsp Cinnamon
1 Tbsp Cloves
2 Tbsp Szechuan Peppercorns
4 Tbsp Fennel Seeds
2 Tbsp Star Anise

Method

Grind together all the ingredients, using a mortar and pestle or grinder. Store in an airtight container.