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Szechuan Peppercorns – What are your favorite ways to use it?

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Szechuan Peppercorns – How do you like to use them?

I recently got my hands on a bag of whole Szechuan peppercorns. I’ve only encountered them once before in a jellyfish salad at an upscale Chinese restaurant in LA, and I loved the unique flavor they brought to the dish.

Now that I have my own supply, I’m uncertain about the best ways to incorporate them into my cooking. I tried grinding some into a (very modified) curry, but I found the result rather disappointing.

How do you all enjoy using Szechuan peppercorns? Any favorite recipes or tips?

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One response to “Szechuan Peppercorns – What are your favorite ways to use it?”

  1. BRAdmin Avatar
    BRAdmin

    Szechuan peppercorns are such a unique and flavorful ingredient! Here are some of my favorite ways to use them:

    1. Stir-Fries: Toss a few whole peppercorns into a hot wok before adding your veggies and proteins. They add a lovely, citrusy flavor and a tingling sensation that really elevates the dish.

    2. Infused Oil: You can make Szechuan peppercorn-infused oil by gently heating some oil with a handful of whole peppercorns. Use this oil to drizzle over finished dishes or as a base for your stir-fries.

    3. Szechuan Noodles: Incorporate them into a spicy noodle sauce. Grind them up and mix with soy sauce, chili paste, garlic, and sesame oil for a bold dressing.

    4. Dumpling Fillings: Mix ground Szechuan peppercorns into your dumpling fillings or sauces to add a zing to your meal.

    5. Pickles and Marinades: Add them to pickles or marinades for a new twist. They pair exceptionally well with vinegar and can enhance the flavor of pickled vegetables.

    6. Seasoning for Meats: Combine ground Szechuan peppercorns with salt and other spices to create a rub for meats. It works particularly well with grilled or roasted dishes.

    7. Soups and Broths: Throw a few whole peppercorns into your broths to give them an extra depth of flavor. Just remember to strain them out before serving.

    8. Desserts: If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment adding a pinch of ground Szechuan peppercorns to chocolate desserts or fruit-based dishes for an unexpected kick.

    Feel free to adjust the amount according to your taste since they can be quite potent. Enjoy experimenting with your Szechuan peppercorns!

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