Skip to main content

Five-Spice Powder

This authentic homemade five-spice powder is a pantry essential that offers a far superior depth of flavour compared to shop-bought alternatives. By gently toasting whole spices like star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, and cassia, you release the essential oils and create a complex, aromatic blend that balances sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and savoury notes. It is a wonderful addition to your spice rack, providing an instant warmth to a variety of traditional dishes.

As a low-sugar seasoning, this versatile blend is perfect for marinating meats, flavouring rich stews, or adding a fragrant kick to simple vegetable stir-fries. Making your own allows you to control the heat levels and ensures your spices are as fresh as possible. Once prepared, keep it in a small glass jar to preserve its intense aroma and use it whenever a recipe calls for a touch of classic oriental warmth.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Five-Spice Powder

  • 2 1/2 (4"-long) cassia or cinnamon sticks

  • 20 whole star anise

  • 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon whole cloves

  • 20 slices dried sand ginger (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons plus 1 1/2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns

  • 2 1/2 teaspoons sliced dried licorice root or fennel seeds

  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

  • 1 teaspoon white peppercorns (optional)

  • A spice mill or coffee grinder

How to make Five-Spice Powder

Toast cassia, star anise, cloves, sand ginger (if using), Sichuan peppercorns, licorice root, black peppercorns, and white peppercorns (if using) in a small skillet over medium, tossing once, until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Let cool; grind to a powder in spice mill or coffee grinder.

Do Ahead: Five-Spice Powder can be made 1 month ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.