Sichuan Smolder

Sichuan Smolder is an evocative dish hailing from the heart of the Sichuan province in China. Known for its bold flavors and characteristic numbing sensation imparted by the famed Sichuan peppercorns, this dish captures the essence of Sichuanese culinary tradition. The rich history of Sichuan cuisine can be traced back over 2,000 years, characterized by its complex combination of salty, sweet, sour, and pungent flavors.

Ingredients

• Chicken – 500g, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Sichuan peppercorns – 2 tablespoons
• Dried chilies – 5-10 pieces (adjust to taste)
• Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons
• Rice wine – 2 tablespoons
• Ginger – 1 tablespoon, minced
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Scallions – 2 stalks, chopped
• Vegetable oil – for frying
• Salt and pepper – to taste

Preparation

1. Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce and rice wine. Allow them to sit for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors fully.
2. In a mortar and pestle, coarsely grind the Sichuan peppercorns.
3. Snip the dried chilies into smaller pieces, discarding as many seeds as possible to control the heat level.

Cooking Process

To perfectly time your cooking, consider using a cooking timer to track each step.

1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add the Sichuan peppercorns and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Introduce the dried chilies, ginger, and garlic to the wok, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
4. Add the marinated chicken to the wok and stir-fry for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and nicely browned.
5. Toss in the scallions and continue to stir-fry for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.

How to Enjoy Sichuan Smolder

Sichuan Smolder is best enjoyed immediately after cooking when the aromas are most potent. Pair it with steamed white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce, balancing the fiery heat of the dish. For those who love to explore textures, serve with a side of crunchy stir-fried greens. This delightful and spicy dish is a celebration of flavors, promising a memorable culinary experience!