| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 2 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 40 | 1g | 0g | 7g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 0g | 3g | 1g | 0g |
Today, I want to share with you one of my favorite recipes: a fruit-based concoction known as Chinese Five Spice Powder – homemade version where Star Anise is one of the main ingredients. This recipe has a special place in my heart, not solely because of its invigorating blend of flavors but also due to its profound connection to my personal journey as a culinary enthusiast.
My journey with Chinese Five Spice Powder
Even though I’ve fond memories and deep love for New England seafood and Irish comfort food, inspired by my Boston upbringing and Irish lineage, my fiancee Laura motivated me to widen my culinary horizons. One of the beautiful aspects of our bond was discovering and trying out different cuisines from around the globe. When we bumped into Chinese Five Spice Powder, a captivating blend of oriental ingredients, the star of which – Star Anise – provides the base note, we were instantly enchanted.
Health Perks of Chinese Five Spice Powder
As a passionate cook and a new father, I have become more conscious of the nutritional value of the meals I prepare. What appeals to me about Chinese Five Spice Powder is not only its unique taste but also the remarkable health virtues contained in its ingredients. For instance, Star Anise is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, and it has been known in traditional medicine to boost digestion and strengthen immune function. Other ingredients in this powder, like Cinnamon and Fennel Seeds, provide their own array of health benefits, making this powder a great addition to any diet.
Aside from its standalone charm, the Chinese Five Spice Powder can vividly enhance other recipes too. If you enjoy Asian cuisine like Chinese Braised Beef with Ginger, spicing it up with this homemade concoction will unquestionably elevate the flavors. Moreover, if you’re a fan of fusion dishes, you can introduce this oriental touch to your Irish Stew or New England Clam Chowder, creating an unexpectedly delightful new taste.
So there you have it! The Chinese Five Spice Powder – homemade version where Star Anise is one of the main ingredients, a recipe I hold dear, not only for its taste and health benefits but for its ability to spice up everyday meals, and the memories it evokes of my journey with Laura. Happy cooking!
What You’ll Need
- 8 Star Anise
- 1 tablespoon Whole Cloves
- 1 tablespoon Szechuan Peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon Fennel Seeds
- 1 3-inch long stick of Cinnamon
Method
Step One
Prepare all your ingredients. Make sure you have 8 Star Anise, 1 tablespoon Whole Cloves, 1 tablespoon Szechuan Peppercorns, 1 tablespoon Fennel Seeds and a 3-inch long stick of Cinnamon.
Step Two
Heat a small, dry frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the Star Anise, Whole Cloves, Szechuan Peppercorns, Fennel Seeds and Cinnamon Stick. Toast them in the pan, stirring occasionally, until they become aromatic. This should take roughly 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn the spices.
Step Three
Remove the pan from the heat and allow the spices to cool completely.
Step Four
Once the spices are cooled, transfer them to a spice grinder. If you don’t have a spice grinder, you can also use a food processor or a mortar and pestle.
Step Five
Grind the spices to a fine powder. Make sure all the spices are well combined and evenly ground.
Step Six
Store the freshly-made Chinese Five Spice Powder in an airtight container, and keep it in a cool, dark place. The freshness and potency of homemade spice blends can last for months when stored properly.
Step Seven
Use your homemade Chinese Five Spice Powder in your favorite recipes. Enjoy the wonderful, aromatic flavors it brings to your dishes.
