Share
Chinese Five Spice is a blend of five aromatic spices that are commonly used in Chinese cuisine. The spices that make up the blend vary depending on the region and the cook but typically include cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Sichuan peppercorns. The blend is used to add depth and complexity to dishes and is particularly popular in meat dishes such as roast duck, pork belly, and spare ribs.
The origins of Chinese Five Spice can be traced back to ancient Chinese medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine holds that the human body is made up of five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Each element is associated with a different organ in the body, and the balance of these elements is said to determine a person's overall health. Chinese Five Spice was developed as a way to balance these elements in the body and was used in medicinal preparations.
Over time, Chinese Five Spice made its way into the kitchen and became a popular seasoning for food. The blend has become an essential ingredient in Chinese cuisine and is now widely used around the world.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon ground star anise
- 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns
Method:
- Toast the fennel seeds and Sichuan peppercorns in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Grind the toasted fennel seeds and Sichuan peppercorns in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Combine the ground fennel seeds and Sichuan peppercorns with the ground cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.
- Mix well and store in an airtight container.
