This Chinese spice blend, now used in much of East Asia and Southeast Asia, represents the five elements in Chinese culture of earth, wood, fire, metal and water as well as the five flavors of sour, bitter, sweet, salty and pungent.
Five spice is in the Inception stage – this seasoning skews towards full service and independent restaurants.
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XLB – Portland, Ore
Five Spice Popcorn Chicken – deep fried bite-sized chicken tossed in five spice powder, served with crispy Thai basil and a lemon wedge.
