Zhejiang cuisine, known for its fresh flavors and diverse ingredients, offers a delightful experience for culinary enthusiasts. One of its standout dishes is the Sichuan slices, which boasts a unique blend of textures and flavors that exemplify this region’s culinary prowess. Here’s a stepbystep guide on how to prepare these mouthwatering Sichuan slices.
Ingredients
300g of pork loin (or chicken breast for a lighter option)
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
1 teaspoon of black vinegar
1 teaspoon of Sichuan peppercorns
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 inch of ginger, finely sliced
23 tablespoons of chili oil (adjust according to heat preference)
1 tablespoon of sesame oil
1 tablespoon of sugar
2 green onions, finely chopped
Fresh coriander, for garnish
Salt, to taste
Step 1: Preparing the Meat
1. Slice the Meat: Begin by trimming any excess fat from the pork loin. Slice the meat thinly against the grain – about 1/8 inch thick – for tenderness.
2. Marinate the Meat: In a bowl, combine the sliced meat with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of black vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Step 2: Preparing the Sichuan Sauce
1. Toast the Peppercorns: In a dry skillet over medium heat, add 1 teaspoon of Sichuan peppercorns. Toast them until fragrant, about 12 minutes, and then grind them to a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the toasted Sichuan pepper powder, minced garlic, sliced ginger, 23 tablespoons of chili oil, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves fully.
Step 3: Cooking the Meat
1. Sauté the Meat: Heat a pan over mediumhigh heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the marinated meat slices in a single layer. Allow them to cook for 23 minutes undisturbed, until they are browned and slightly crispy. Flip and cook the other side for another 2 minutes.
2. Combine with Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and pour the prepared Sichuan sauce over the meat. Stir well to ensure every slice is coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Garnishing and Serving
1. Finishing Touches: Once the meat is cooked and evenly coated with the sauce, remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle the chopped green onions and fresh coriander over the top for added freshness and crunch.
2. Serve: Transfer the Sichuan slices to a serving plate. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or can be enjoyed as a savory appetizer.
Enjoying the Dish
The Sichuan slices embody the refreshing and nuanced flavors of Zhejiang cuisine, creating a dish that is both satisfying and flavorpacked. The tender meat, combined with the rich, spicy sauce and the delicate toppings, makes for a delightful culinary experience that can be savored at any time.