Go Back
–+ servings
five spice powder recipe

How To Make Five Spice Powder

Five spice powder is a culinary gem that amplifies flavors in countless dishes. It whispers sweet nothings to stir-fries, dances in marinades, and wakes up roasted meats. I
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Seasoning
Cuisine American
Servings 1 cups spices
Calories 127 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ teaspoons fennel seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 6 whole star anise pods or 2 teaspoons anise seeds
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns or 1 ½ teaspoons whole black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom

Instructions
 

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

  • Before diving into the spice-making process, assemble all your ingredients. Believe me, having everything at hand cuts down on chaos.

Step 2: Measure the Whole Spices

  • Start measuring the whole spices. I recommend using a kitchen scale for accuracy. If you’re not a scales person, just use standard measuring spoons. However, precision will enhance your blend.

Step 3: Toast the Spices

  • In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the fennel seeds, Sichuan peppercorns, and coriander seeds for about 2-3 minutes. You want to release the oils, which enhances the taste. Keep an eye out; burnt spices can ruin the blend.

Step 4: Cool the Spices

  • After toasting, allow the spices to cool for a few minutes. Patience is your friend here. If you skip this step, your ground spices might clump.

Step 5: Grind the Spices

  • Using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, combine your toasted spices with the star anise, cinnamon, and ground cardamom. Grind until you achieve a fine powder. If you don’t have a grinder, finely chopping the spices could work, but it may not yield the same powdery texture.

Step 6: Store Your Blend

  • Transfer your freshly made five spice powder to an airtight container. Label it, and store it away from heat and sunlight. It should last for about six months, but trust me, you’ll probably use it long before that!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Spices: The key to a vibrant flavor is starting with fresh spices. Check expiration dates.
  • Experiment with Ratios: If you have a budding spice preference, adjust the amounts to suit your taste.
  • Storage Matters: Keep your spice blend in a cool, dry place. Avoid moisture at all costs.
  • Bringing Out the Flavor: Combine your spice mix with a bit of salt when using it in savory dishes. The salt helps to amplify flavors.
  • Taste Test: Don’t be shy. Taste your finished blend. If it needs something, adjust it. Cooking is all about personal preference.

Nutrition

Serving: 50gCalories: 127kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 4gFat: 3.4gSaturated Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 11mgFiber: 17gSugar: 1g
Keyword How To Make Five Spice Powder
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!