xiāngliào: 香料 - Spices, Aromatic Seasonings

Keywords: xiangliao, 香料, Chinese spices, Chinese seasonings, aromatic spices, what is xiangliao, how to use xiangliao, Chinese cooking ingredients, five spice powder, star anise, Sichuan peppercorn, 卤水, lǔshuǐ

Summary: Discover “香料 (xiāngliào),” the Chinese term for spices and aromatic seasonings that are the heart and soul of authentic Chinese cuisine. This guide explores what 香料 are, from common ingredients like star anise to complex medicinal blends, and explains their crucial role in creating the deep, layered flavors that define many famous Chinese dishes. Learn how to identify, use, and talk about these essential “fragrant materials” to elevate your cooking and understanding of Chinese culture.

Pinyin (with tone marks): xiāngliào

Part of Speech: Noun

HSK Level: HSK 5

Concise Definition: Spices, aromatic seasonings, or fragrant materials.

In a Nutshell: 香料 (xiāngliào) is the general term for ingredients used primarily for their aroma and flavor. Think of it as the spice rack of Chinese cooking, but broader. It includes everything from whole spices like cinnamon sticks and star anise used in braises, to ground powders like five-spice, to ingredients used in incense and traditional medicine. The core idea is “fragrant materials” that transform a simple dish into something complex