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Chinese Five Spice Recipe - Capture the Authentic
Flavours and Aromas of China and Asia

An authentic Chinese five spice recipe encompasses the five tastes: pungent, salty, sweet, sour and bitter. This is what ancient Chinese philosophers were apparently after when they created this easy-to-make, traditional recipe. (See the bottom of the page for links to more of my recipes)

What You'll Need: (makes about 7-8 tablespoon)

8-10 star anise
3 tbsp fennel seed
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp green cardamom pods (optional)
4 tsp peppercorns
2 tsp whole cloves

tbsp = tablespoon
tsp = teaspoon

Directions:

• Break up the star anise into smallish pieces and remove the seeds from the cardamom if using

• Finely grind these along with the fennel, peppercorns and cloves. Regrind any bits that won't sieve

• Sieve into a bowl

• Stir in the ground cinnamon

Store your Chinese 5 spice in an airtight container and out of direct sunlight. Use within 3 months.

Note: To greatly intensify the flavours and aromas, dry toasting the fennel, peppercorns and cloves before cooling and grinding is recommended if you have a few minutes to spare. Read more about toasting and grinding. (Link opens in new window)

Ingredient Note: I use mainly whole ingredients for this mix, but if you don't have them whole simply swap with pre-ground powders and reduce the amounts by half. So instead of 4 teaspoons of peppercorns you use 2 teaspoons of pre-ground pepper. Reduce any other ingredients you don't have whole by half as well and stir in with any other powders when making.

After Making Your Chinese Five Spice Recipe You May Enjoy...

Blackened Seasoning - Great For Pan Frying Fish or Meat

Bouquet Garni Seasoning Add Traditional French  Flavours to Your Food

Collection of Cooking Spices For Tastier Home Cooking

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