Wok-Fried Mala Morsel
Introduction to Wok-Fried Mala Morsel
Wok-Fried Mala Morsel is a delightful culinary creation deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of Sichuan cuisine, renowned for its bold flavors and iconic numbing spice sensation. The word "mala" itself translates to "numb" and "spicy," perfectly encapsulating the dynamism of the dish's flavor profile. Sichuan cuisine, where this dish originates, is celebrated for its liberal use of the Sichuan peppercorn, a unique ingredient that brings a distinctive tingling sensation to the palate. Over the centuries, Sichuan cuisine has evolved into one of China's eight great culinary traditions, with Wok-Fried Mala Morsel emerging as a popular choice amongst spice enthusiasts around the globe.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast - 500g, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Vegetable oil - 2 tablespoons
- Sichuan peppercorn - 1 tablespoon
- Dried red chili - 10-12 pieces
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Ginger - 1-inch piece, minced
- Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
- Rice wine vinegar - 1 tablespoon
- Sugar - 1 teaspoon
- Scallions - 2 stalks, chopped
- Sesame oil - 1 teaspoon
- Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon
- Water - 2 tablespoons
- Sesame seeds - for garnish
Preparation
Begin by marinating the chicken breast. In a bowl, combine the chopped chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a tablespoon of water. Stir the mixture well and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the aromatics. Finely mince garlic and ginger, and chop the scallions. Set them aside for later use.
Cooking Instructions
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add Sichuan peppercorn and dried red chili. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the spices.
Introduce the marinated chicken breast to the wok. Stir-fry the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring they cook evenly on all sides. The chicken should begin to develop a golden-brown crust.
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the wok. Sauté together with the chicken for another 2 minutes, infusing the dish with aromatic flavors.
Pour in the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to coat the chicken thoroughly in the savory sauce. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Drizzle a small amount of sesame oil over the chicken for added fragrance. Sprinkle in the chopped scallions and mix everything together.
Cooking Time
Refer to this cooking timer to ensure precise timing throughout the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Plate the Wok-Fried Mala Morsel fresh from the wok, allowing the sizzling heat and aroma to tantalize your senses. Garnish the dish with a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added textural crunch. To enjoy the full spectrum of flavors, pair the dish with steamed jasmine rice or freshly cooked egg noodles. The soft texture of the rice or noodles beautifully complements the rich, spicy, and numbing sensation of the Mala Morsel, making each bite a delightful experience. For an enhanced dining experience, serve alongside traditional Sichuan side dishes such as pickled vegetables or cucumber salad to provide a refreshing counterbalance to the intense flavors.
Conclusion
Wok-Fried Mala Morsel, with its riveting blend of spices and textures, is more than a meal—it's an experience. This quintessential Sichuan dish invites you to embrace the numbing heat that is both a trademark and testament to the boldness of Chinese culinary traditions. Whether feasting alone or sharing with family and friends, the vibrancy of this dish guarantees an adventure for your taste buds, ensuring it becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire.