5 Spice Powder

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons cinnamon
6 star anise or 2 teaspoons anise seeds
... 1 1/2 teaspoons fennel seeds
1 1/2 teaspoons szechuan peppercorns or 1 1/2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
3/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in blender or coffee grinder.

Blend until finely ground.

Store in airtight container.

Keeps up to 2 months.

Notes:

You could"roast" the whole spices a bit for a more intense flavor in a dry frying pan-- Watch closely to prevent spices from burning.

Add it whenever you want to lend flavor to stir-fries, soups and red-cooked dishes. It works well with meats, and makes an excellent marinade. Just remember to use sparingly - a little goes a long way.