Five-Spice Powder

Sichuan peppercorns make this spice blend unusual and unforgettable. This tiny fruit pod (it’s not really a peppercorn) has an unusual smoky, citrusy flavor. Use this in stir-fries, for spiced nuts, and even sprinkled on desserts, like Butter Cookies and Old-Fashioned Baked Custard

1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns or black peppercorns

6 star anise

11/2 teaspoons cloves

One 3-inch stick cinnamon

2 tablespoons fennel seeds

• Put all the ingredients in a spice or coffee grinder and grind to a fine powder. Store in a tightly covered opaque container for up to several months.

MAKES: About 1/4 cup

TIME: 5 minutes