Chinese Five Spice

Chinese Five Spice

Spice Good year-round
Used in 1 of 45 cuisines (2%)

A fragrant blend of warm spices, Chinese five spice captivates the senses with notes of star anise, clove, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorn, and fennel. This aromatic mix infuses dishes with a sweet-heat complexity, making it essential in Chinese cooking.

Where it comes from

Rooted in Chinese culinary tradition, this spice blend is thought to represent the five elements of traditional Chinese philosophy: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water.

In the kitchen

Chinese five spice is used to season meats, enhance braises, and flavor stir-fries, delivering a robust profile that elevates savory dishes.

Flavor affinities

Seen in these dishes