Chinese Five Spice

Name: Chinese Five Spice
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: about 1/2 cup.
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons aniseed; 2 tablespoons fennel seed; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons whole cloves; 2 tablespoons whole peppercorns

I regularly mix up my own spice blends. I have recipes of Indian and Mexican spice blends, too. But my favorite is this Chinese five spice version with its strong anise flavor. It's so convenient to make this mix from pantry staples I have on hand. —Lydia Scott, Englehart, Ontario

Ingredients

2 tablespoons aniseed
2 tablespoons fennel seed
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons whole cloves
2 tablespoons whole peppercorns

Directions

In a spice grinder or with a mortar and pestle, combine all ingredients (in batches if necessary); grind until mixture becomes a fine powder. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.