Ingredients:
500g chicken thighs (skinless, boneless)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice wine
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
56 dried red chili peppers
34 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns
4 garlic cloves (minced)
1 small piece of ginger (finely chopped)
1 bell pepper (diced)
3 green onions (chopped)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish
StepbyStep Preparation:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bitesized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch. Add the chicken pieces to this mixture and toss well. Allow the chicken to absorb the flavors for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prep the Aromatics:
While the chicken marinates, take a moment to prepare your supporting cast: mince the garlic, finely chop the ginger, and dice the bell pepper. The aromatic trio will play a vital role in crafting the dish’s layered flavor profile.
3. Heat the Pan:
In a large skillet or wok, pour in the vegetable oil and heat it over mediumhigh heat. The oil should shimmer, indicating it’s ready for the next step.
4. Sizzle the Spices:
Once the oil is hot, add the dried red chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. For a few fleeting moments, enjoy the captivating aroma as they infuse the oil. Stir frequently – be vigilant, as these spices can burn swiftly, losing their delightful essence.
5. Introduce the Chicken:
Add the marinated chicken into the sizzling oil, allowing it to sear in the spices for around 57 minutes. Ensure that each piece is touched by the heat; this encourages a beautiful golden crust that is both inviting and enticing.
6. Add the Aromatics:
Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, introduce the minced garlic, ginger, and diced bell pepper to the pan. Toss everything together, letting the garlic and ginger envelop the chicken in their fragrant embrace. This is where the depth of character begins to emerge.
7. Flavor the Dish:
Sprinkle in the sugar and drizzle the sesame oil over the cooking chicken. These ingredients will envelop the chicken in a sweet and savory glaze, enhancing the experience of each bite. Stir and cook for an additional 23 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully coated.
8. Finish with Greens:
Just before serving, add the chopped green onions. They bring a fresh crunch and a pop of color to the dish, balancing the rich flavors cultivated during cooking. Give everything one last gentle toss, allowing the ingredients to mingle harmoniously.
9. Plating Your Masterpiece:
Plate your mouthwatering Sichuan chicken artfully, garnishing it with fresh cilantro for a burst of brightness. The colors should be inviting, the aromas divine, and the anticipation palpable.
The full circle of preparation and presentation brings together each crafted step into a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but speaks of rich traditions and culinary passions that run deep in Sichuan cuisine. Indulge in the plunge of flavor, and allow each morsel to tell a story of culture and care.