Chinese 5-Spice Powder

This reddish brown powder, a combination of five spices, is an essential ingredient in Chinese cooking.

Recipe Ingredients:

3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
6 whole star anise*
1 1/2 teaspoons fennel seeds
1 1/2 teaspoons Szechuan peppercorns or whole black peppercorns
3/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Cooking Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in blender or spice/coffee grinder and blend until finely ground.
2. Store in airtight container. Keeps up to 2 months.

Makes about 1/3 cup.

*Or 2 teaspoons anise seeds

Tip: For a more authentic and richer flavor, pan roast the whole spices in a heavy skillet over medium high heat, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being very careful not to let the spices burn.