Spice Map

Sichuan pepper, doubanjiang, star anise, black vinegar -- the spices that define Chinese regional cuisines, and why freshness matters more than brand.

Chinese spices are about sensation, depth, aroma, and complexity. Most importantly, they are about freshness -- a stale Sichuan peppercorn has zero numbing power. This cluster maps every major Chinese spice with freshness tests and visual guides.