Five spice is a spice blend of five flavors primarily used in Chinese and East Asian cuisine.

The quantities of individual spices are based on the Chinese philosophy of balancing yin and yang.

There are many variations of this blend, but the most common one consists of equal parts star anise (bajiao), cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan pepper (huajiao), and fennel. Chinese cassia can be used instead of true cinnamon.

Five spice is often used with fatty meats like pork and duck. It's used for stir-fried vegetables and as a rub for chicken, duck, pork, and seafood.

Although the exact origin of this blend is lost to history, it's speculated that the Chinese created it in an attempt to make a miraculous powder that would encompass all five elements. All five flavors (sour, bitter, sweet, spicy, and salty) can be found in this blend. However, it's also possible that chefs accidentally combined these spices and realized it could enliven even the most bland dish.

Regardless, there's no doubt that five spice is a unique spice blend.

Stored in a tightly sealed container, five spice will retain its flavors and aroma for at least a year.

GOOD FOR meat, pork, duck, Chinese cuisine.