Five spice is a pungently aromatic blend which has become synonymous with Chinese cooking and is now widely used throughout South-east Asia. Aromas of anise and cinnamon dominate and are backed by the presence of fennel, cloves and pepper.

The origins of this celebrated spice blend are lost to time, but there is some thought that the ancient Chinese were attempting to perfect a wondrous blend that would encompass all five flavours of sour, bitter, sweet, pungent, and salty.

Whatever the truth, Five Spice has an excellent ability to add interest and depth of flavour to many oriental dishes.