Although known as five-spice, it can also be called five-spice powder if more than five spices are used for seasoning, includingstar anise,clove,fennel seed, Sichuan pepper, dried tangerine peel, cinnamon, and licorice...the recipes vary among different manufacturers.

Five-spice powder is a crucial seasoning in Chinese cuisine made from five or more spices for flavoring, used in braising, stewing, especially in the marination and cooking of meat dishes.

With its strong fragrance, five-spice powder may not taste much but has wide applications,its main function being to enhance the original flavor of food.When using it for sauces, it is often used in thickened sauces like satay sauce.

To ensure successful dissolution, it can be pre-soaked in water or rice wine before adding to the sauce.mace,fennel seed