Chinese Five Spice

Although the exact origins of five-spice powder are unknown, one theory is that the Chinese were attempting to produce a “wonder powder” encompassing all of the five elements. All of the five flavors – sour, bitter, sweet, pungent, and salty – are found in five-spice powder.  It’s possible, too, that a cook accidentally stumbled upon this particular combination of spices, and realized its power to enliven the blandest dish.

You can find Chinese Five Spice already mixed in you local grocery store spice rack, or you can make your own:

1. In a dry skillet, roast 2 teaspoons of Szechuan peppercorns by shaking the pan over low to medium heat until the aroma of the peppercorns is released (about three minutes).
2. Grind the roasted peppercorns and 8 star anise in a blender or pepper mill.
3. Strain the blended seasonings.
4. Grind the seasonings until very fine.
5. Mix in 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon ground fennel seeds.

Store in an airtight container.