Five-Spice Salmon with Leeks in Parchment

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 teaspoons whole fennel seeds
• 6 whole black peppercorns
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 whole star anise
• 1 (1 1/2-inch) cinnamon stick
• 4 (6-ounce) skinless salmon fillets
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 leek, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced (about 1 cup)

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 425°.
2. Combine first 5 ingredients in a small skillet over medium heat; cook for 1 minute or until fragrant. Transfer toasted spices to a spice grinder or coffee grinder; grind until fine.
3. Cut 4 (12-inch) squares of parchment paper. Place 1 fillet in center of each square. Sprinkle evenly with salt and spice mixture; top fillets evenly with leeks. Fold paper; seal edges with narrow folds. Place packets on a baking sheet. Bake at 425° for 20 minutes or until puffy and lightly browned. Place on plates; cut open. Serve immediately.