Chinese five spice salt

Grind the spices in a spice mill until smooth (if you have the time to toast them beforehand, you’ll take the flavour up a notch).

Combine the spice mixture with the salt.

Transfer to an airtight jar and store in a dry place.

Recipe origins

Five spice is thought to have originated in Southern China and traditionally includes star anise, fennel seeds, Szechuan peppercorns, cloves and cinnamon. Legend has it the Chinese were trying to produce a “wonder powder” that included all of the five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Five spice is now used in almost every branch of Chinese cooking and conveys the five flavours of sweet, bitter, sour, salty and savoury.

How to use Chinese five spice salt

Think you know Chinese food? What you may know is Chinese food that’s been Westernised for more timid palates – learn about the evolution of Chinese cuisine. Once you’ve got to grips with the basics of Chinese food, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to try out your five spice salt – here are three tasty stir fry recipes to inspire you.

How to store Chinese five spice salt

Five spice salt should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Use it within six months before it starts to lose its pungency.

This recipe was updated on 30/08/2023.