What exactly is Five-Spice Powder? Five-Spice Powder can be used in virtually everything from fish, pork, poultry, vegetable and rice dishes to meatballs, barbeque spareribs, muffins and apple pie! It adds not only a sweet aromatic scent to the kitchen but it also brings out an array of pungent flavors that can liven up almost any dish! Many popular Chinese dishes often call for Five-Spice Powder to be used in them. This Chinese seasoning is a combination of all five flavors: sweet, sour, bitter, pungent and salty. It is a fine ground blend of anise, peppercorns, cinnamon, fennel and cloves. If you haven't started experimenting with these spices yet then I guarantee once you do that you will find Five-Spice to be one of your most favorite kitchen staples. It is especially great for those of us who desire lots of flavor but have little time to devote to our meals! You can most likely find this popular seasoning in many grocery stores these days but it is also something you can make at home easily by combining the following spices: 1 8 star anise or 4 tsp. ground anise 1 T. Szechwan peppercorns or black peppercorns 1 T. ground cinnamon or 1 cinnamon stick 1 T. fennel seeds 1/2 tsp. whole or ground cloves Simply place all ingredients in a small skillet over a medium-heat and dry-roast cook for about 5 minutes. You will begin to smell it's distinct aroma fill your home. Next, place spices in a coffee grinder or a mortar and grind until seasonings are very fine. Be sure to store in an airtight container to guarantee freshness. Makes a great kitchen incense too!