Grilled meat seasoned with Sichuan Pepper

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Sichuan pepper, also known as Szechuan pepper, is a spice that has been a staple ingredient in Chinese cuisine for centuries. Although it is called a pepper, it is not related to black or white pepper. Instead, Sichuan pepper comes from the husks of the prickly ash tree, which is native to the Sichuan province in China. This spice is known for its unique flavor profile that features a bold and numbing sensation, which adds a distinct flavor to any dish.

Sichuan pepper has a long and rich history in Chinese cuisine. It was first recorded in the Han Dynasty, and has been used in Chinese cuisine ever since. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine for its therapeutic properties. Today, it is widely used in Sichuan cuisine and is a popular ingredient in many dishes across China.

One of the most distinctive features of Sichuan pepper is its flavor profile. When you first taste it, you may notice a slightly lemony and floral flavor. This is quickly followed by a numbing sensation that spreads throughout your mouth, which is caused by the natural compound hydroxy-alpha-sanshool found in the pepper. The numbing sensation is not painful, but rather a unique and enjoyable sensation that adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

Sichuan pepper is a versatile spice that can be used in a variety of dishes. Check out the following recipes for some inspiration on how you can use Sichuan pepper in your own cooking.

Sichuan Pepper Recipes:

Sichuan-Spiced Lamb Ribs

From: Gourmet Traveller

These Sichuan-spiced lamb ribs are packed with bold and savory flavors, making them a mouth-watering and irresistible addition to any dinner spread.

Stir-Fried Kung Pao Chicken

From: The Spruce Eats

This Kung Pao Chicken recipe offers a perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors, creating a deliciously aromatic and satisfying dish.

Dan Dan Noodles

From: Olive

A classic Sichuan dish that combines tender noodles with spicy, savory, and nutty flavors, creating a dish that will tantalize your taste buds.

Xi'an-Style Oven-Fried Chicken Wings

From: Serious Eats

If you're feeling bold and brave, indulge in these "hot and numbing" crispy chicken wings that are full of flavor and spice.

Sichuan peppercorns
Sichuan pepper powder

Szechuan Beef

From: Carlsbad Cravings


Satisfy your cravings for bold and savory flavors with this classic Szechuan Beef recipe that features tender slices of beef, tossed in a rich and aromatic sauce with a spicy kick.

Szechuan Chili Shrimp

From: Jo Cooks

Heat up your taste buds with this Szechuan Chili Shrimp recipe that showcases succulent spiced shrimp coated in an aromatic sauce, creating a dish that's bursting with bold and satisfying flavors.

Szechuan Pepper Salt

From: All Ways Delicious

Made with just two ingredients, Szechuan Pepper Salt is a versatile seasoning that you can sprinkle on all your Chinese dishes to add an extra layer of zing and complexity to the flavors.

Szechuan Chicken

From: Honest Food Talks

Bring the flavors of authentic Szechuan cuisine to your own kitchen with this delicious and easy-to-follow recipe that's packed with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a bold and savory sauce that will keep you coming back for more.