• prep: 20 min
• cook: 40 min
• total: 1 hr

servings:

During a research trip to Hong Kong, food editor Ian Knauer discovered that every family has its own recipe for five-spice powder, a pivotal ingredient in so many Chinese dishes. He took things a step further by adding black peppercorns to the aromatic mix, which holds its own against the robust flavor of hanger steak. As for side dishes, this would be delicious with steamed rice and stir-fried bok choy, but your menu doesn't have to be Asian—try it with a brightly dressed green salad and roasted potatoes.

• 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns
• 10 black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon anise seeds
• 1 (2-inch) piece cinnamon stick
• 4 cloves
• 2 teaspoons packed dark brown sugar
• 1 hanger steak (about 2 pounds and 1 1/2 inches thick), center gristle removed
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (not seasoned)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon minced peeled ginger
• 1 teaspoons minced shallot
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• Equipment: an electric coffee/spice grinder

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