Chinese Five Spice Powder: What's in It and How to Make It

By Chef Liu Wei · May 26, 2026

What Is Five Spice Powder?

Five spice powder is a cornerstone of Chinese cooking. The name refers to the five flavors in Chinese philosophy: sweet, sour, bitter, pungent, and salty.

The Classic Five Ingredients

Star anise (4 parts): sweet, licorice-like warmth. Cloves (1 part): intense, sweet pungency. Chinese cinnamon/cassia (2 parts): warm sweetness. Sichuan peppercorn (2 parts): numbing tingle. Fennel seeds (2 parts): mild anise sweetness.

How to Make It at Home

Toast all whole spices in a dry wok until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Cool completely, then grind to a fine powder using a spice grinder. Sift through a fine mesh strainer. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

10 Ways to Use Five Spice

1. Rub on roast duck or pork belly. 2. Add to red braised pork. 3. Season stir-fried vegetables. 4. Mix into dumpling fillings. 5. Flavor soy sauce dipping sauces. 6. Add to congee. 7. Use in char siu marinade. 8. Season roasted nuts. 9. Add to marinades for beef jerky. 10. Sprinkle on popcorn.

Common Mistakes

Using pre-ground spices (freshly ground is far more aromatic). Adding too much — five spice is potent and a little goes a long way. Start with 1/4 teaspoon per pound of meat.