Substitutes for Chinese Five-Spice Powder

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Blend of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel used in Chinese and Vietnamese cooking.

Can't find Chinese Five-Spice Powder in your kitchen? No problem! Below are 3 tested substitutes with exact ratios, perfect for baking, cooking, and everything in between.

Substitute Ratio Best For Dietary
Star Anise + Cinnamon + Cloves 1/2 tsp ground star anise + 1/4 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp cloves per 1 tsp five-spice Chinese dishes, braises, duck
Vegan Gluten-Free
Garam Masala 1:1 replacement braises, spice rubs, soups
Vegan Gluten-Free
Allspice 1:1 replacement spice rubs, braises
Vegan Gluten-Free

How to Use

Approximates five-spice without all five components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Chinese Five-Spice Powder?
The best substitute depends on your recipe, but Star Anise + Cinnamon + Cloves is a reliable choice for most applications. Use 1/2 tsp ground star anise + 1/4 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp cloves per 1 tsp five-spice.
What's a vegan substitute for Chinese Five-Spice Powder?
Star Anise + Cinnamon + Cloves is an excellent vegan option. Use 1/2 tsp ground star anise + 1/4 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp cloves per 1 tsp five-spice.
Can I use any of these substitutes interchangeably?
Most substitutes work well in their recommended use cases, but they may produce slightly different results. The notes above explain the differences and best practices.
Will the taste be affected?
Some substitutes may subtly change the flavor profile of your dish, but they'll work great in the recommended use cases. Start with the suggested ratio and adjust to your taste.

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