You can make your own mix or buy it. Be sure to buy an authentic mix including

• Sichuan peppercorn
• Star anise
• Chinese cinnamon
• cloves
• fennel seeds

 Store in a sealed jar for up to six months.

 If you decide to make your own mix

Ingredients

• 12 g star anise seeds
• 10 g fennel seeds
• 10 g Sichuan peppercorn
• 6 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick

Mwthod

1. Toast the whole spices in a small pan until they are aromatic and have turned a shade or two darker. Don’t be tempted to skip this stage, as it really enhances the flavours.
2. Tip into a spice grinder (or use a pestle and mortar) and crush to a fine powder.

China
Pekin duck