Chinese 5 spice powder is a mix of 5 spices (of course) and sometimes salt. It’s great for seasoning fatty cuts of meat like pork or duck but it surely’s additionally scrumptious on seafood. You’ll at all times discover some in my pantry and I like utilizing it on all types of dishes!  I make a large batch so I at all times have some readily available.

Chinese 5 Spice Powder

Some say this Chinese delicacies spice combine originated from the standard parts: fireplace, water, air, earth, and space. While there could also be some reality to that this spice does embody all of the flavors. You’ll style notes of bitter, salty, candy, and bitter on this basic recipe.

The core spices normally used are star anise, Sichuan peppercorns (or black pepper), fennel, and cassia or Chinese cinnamon. Other spices like sand ginger, cloves, turmeric, licorice, fennel seeds, or citrus peel are added too. It’s much like garam masala with its warming spices.

Traditionally Asian cultures use Sichuan peppercorns (also called Szechuan pepper). Originating from the Sichuan Province in China, Sichuan pepper is thought for its spicy and pungent taste profile. More trendy recipes usually call for black peppercorns or white pepper that are simpler to seek out on the native grocery retailer.

How To Use Five Spice Powder

Maybe I’ve satisfied you that Chinese Five Spice packs a flavorful punch, however how do you utilize it?

I usually use this spice in stir fry and roasted meats or greens. It’s particularly good blended into a mix of recent orange juice, lemon juice, and honey. (Not sure if that is a conventional use, however it’s scrumptious).

You can use it as a spice rub for grilled meats like beef, chicken, or pork stomach. Add it to a marinade or combine it in with grain-free breading. And of course, it really works nicely in Chinese recipes like Asian-style BBQ pork or Peking duck. You don’t need to relegate this condiment to Chinese food although.

Some different great methods to make use of this spice mix:

If Five Spice isn’t your sort of seasoning, take a look at my different spice blend recipes for one you’ll like!

Amp Up the Flavor

I just like the above recipe as a result of it’s fast, flavorful, and simple (as a result of yes, I’ve 6 children!). Traditionally you’d use complete spices and toast them first. If you wish to go the additional mile and toast them for a richer taste, right here’s how:

1. Use the recipe quantities above however use complete as an alternative of ground spices. For the cinnamon, use six 3-inch cinnamon sticks.
2. Toast the spices in a skillet over medium-low warmth for a number of minutes or till aromatic. Stir always to stop burning.
3. Add the spices to a espresso grinder or spice grinder and course of till they’re a tremendous powder.

Ever tried a Chinese Five Spice seasoning? How did you utilize it? Leave a remark and tell us!