Mala Pot Recipe

Originating from the Sichuan province of China, Mala Pot, known as "Mala Xiang Guo," is a popular contemporary dish that combines the numbing and spicy flavors characteristic of Sichuan cuisine. The word 'Mala' comes from "ma," meaning numb, and "la," meaning spicy, a sensation achieved by using both Sichuan peppercorns and dried chili peppers. This dish is beloved for its bold, rich taste and versatile nature, allowing cooks to personalize it with various ingredients.

Ingredients

• Sichuan peppercorns
• Dried chili peppers
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Hoisin sauce
• Sesame oil
• Cooking oil
• Chicken breast
• Beef slices
• Tofu
• Lotus root
• Potatoes
• Bok choy
• Mushrooms
• Broccoli
• Spring onions
• Cilantro
• Rice (for serving)
• White pepper
• Salt

Preparation

Step 1: Marinate the Proteins

Begin by slicing chicken breast and beef slices into small pieces. Marinate them with a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, and salt. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Peel and slice lotus root and potatoes. Chop bok choy, mushrooms, and broccoli. Make sure the vegetables are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Precook the Tofu

Slice the tofu and fry it in cooking oil until golden brown. Set aside.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Create the Mala Base

In a large wok, heat some cooking oil and add Sichuan peppercorns and dried chili peppers. Stir-fry these over low heat until fragrant. Add ginger and garlic, stirring until lightly browned.

Step 2: Stir-Fry the Proteins

Increase the heat and add the marinated chicken breast and beef slices. Stir-fry until the meat is cooked through, then remove from the wok and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Pot

Add more cooking oil if necessary and toss in the prepared vegetables – lotus root, potatoes, bok choy, mushrooms, and broccoli. Add a splash of water and cover to steam for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the vegetables are tender, add the reserved proteins, fried tofu, and the sauce mixture comprising soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Cooking Time for the entire process should take around 30-45 minutes.

How to Enjoy Mala Pot

Brought to the table in the wok or transferred to a large bowl, Mala Pot is most enjoyable when shared. Serve it hot, garnished with chopped spring onions and fresh cilantro. Pair it with steamed rice to balance the intense flavors. Due to its heat, Mala Pot is ideally accompanied by chilled beverages. Whether enjoyed with family or friends, this dish promises a culinary journey to the heart of Sichuan with each spicy, numbing bite.