Chinese Five-Spice Chinese five-spice is an equal parts mixture of star anise, Szechuan peppercorn, cinnamon, cloves and fennel seeds. This mild, fragrant blend can be substituted for a surprise kick to sweets where you might otherwise use cinnamon and nutmeg. It will lend a distinctly Asian flavor to meat and poultry dishes, and is a good companion to outdoor or indoor grilling as a rub.