Chinese five spice powder is a mix of five spices (of course) and salt. It’s great for seasoning fatty meats like pork and duck, but it’s also delicious with seafood. I always have five spice powder in my pantry and love to use it in all kinds of dishes. I make a big batch so I always have it on hand.
Chinese Five Spice Powder
Some say this Chinese spice mix is ​​derived from the traditional elements of fire, water, air, earth and space. While it’s true that this spice mix encompasses all tastes, this traditional recipe allows you to taste sour, salty, sweet and bitter.
The main spices commonly used are star aniseSichuan pepper (or black pepper), fennel, cinnamon, or Chinese cinnamonOther spices such as sand ginger, clovesOther ingredients include turmeric, licorice, fennel seeds and citrus peels. It’s similar to garam masala, but with warming spices.
Traditionally, Asian cultures use Szechuan peppercorns (also known as Sichuan peppercorns). Native to the Sichuan province of China, Szechuan peppercorns are known for their hot, pungent flavor. More modern recipes often use black or white peppercorns, which are readily available at your local grocery store.
How to use five-spice powder
Now you know that Chinese five-spice powder is packed with flavor, but how do you use it?
I often use this spice on stir-fries or roasted meats and vegetables, especially when mixed with fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and honey (I’m not sure if this is the traditional way to use it, but it’s delicious).
It can be used as a spice for grilled meats such as beef, chicken, and pork belly. It can also be added to marinades or Grain-free breadcrumbsOf course, it also pairs well with Chinese dishes like Asian barbecued pork and Peking duck, but you don’t have to limit this seasoning to Chinese cuisine.
Other great uses for this spice blend:
If five spice powder isn’t your favorite seasoning, check out my other spice blend recipes to find one you’ll love.
Chinese five-spice powder
Our homemade Chinese 5 spice blend contains anise, black pepper, fennel, cinnamon and cloves for a deliciously complex flavour – try it on meats and vegetables.
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Mix all ingredients together and store in an airtight container.
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For best flavor, use within 1-2 years and store in a cool, dark place.
Nutrition facts
Chinese five-spice powder
Serving Size (1 teaspoon)
calorie Five
Calories from Fat 2
% Daily Value*
fat 0.2 g0%
Saturated Fat 0.02g0%
Trans fatty acids 0.001g
Polyunsaturated fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated fat 0.1g
sodium 333mg14%
potassium 21mg1%
carbohydrates 1 gram0%
Fiber 1gFour%
Sugar 0.02g0%
protein 0.2 g0%
Vitamin A 5IU0%
Vitamin C 0.2 mg0%
calcium 14 mg1%
iron 0.4 mg2%
*Percent Daily Values ​​are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Great for vegetables and drinks too!
Enhance the flavor
I love the recipe above because it’s quick, flavorful and easy (yes, I have 6 kids!). Traditionally, you would use whole spices and toast them first. If you want to go a step further and toast them for a richer flavor, follow these steps:
- Use the recipe measurements above, but use whole spices instead of ground spices. For the cinnamon, use six 3-inch cinnamon sticks.
- Add the spices to the skillet and sauté over medium-low heat for a few minutes or until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Place the spices in a coffee grinder or spice grinder and grind until you get a fine powder.
Have you ever used Chinese five spice powder? How did you use it? Leave a comment and let me know!
