The ingredients and amounts vary depending on the region and particular person's recipe. But the 5 main spices are: 1) Star Anise 2) Fennel Seeds 3) Peppercorns 4) Cloves and 5) Cinnamon If you have ever been to a Chinatown and pass a place where they serve Peking Duck, chances are the aroma you are smelling is five spice. Every single time I take a bite of this salt and pepper chicken, it reminds me to San Francisco's Chinatown!