Ingredient Name: Sichuan pepper or aniseed pepper or chinese pepper
Traditional Chinese Name: 花椒 (huājiāo)
What is this?
- Sichuan pepper is the outer pod of a tiny fruit (with the seed discarded)
- Despite the name, it is not related to black pepper or chili peppers
- It is very aromatic, woody, slightly spicy and has very slighty lemony overtones
- Sichuan pepper is typically used in combination with ginger and star anise and as a base for spicy foods
How do I prepare it?
- These is no preparation required for this dried spice although you may lightly toast the sichuan peppers and grind them before use
Where can I buy this?
Sichuan peppers are a moderately priced spice and can be purchased in most Asian grocery stores and some Western supermarkets
Any substitutes?
- Black pepper and red chili flakes (although they are a poor substitute)
Any benefits?
- Some believe the sichuan pepper can be used for treating certain gastro-urinary disorders
Any precautions?
- It has a numbing effect on the lips when eaten in large doses.
Resources:
Thank you, this information was most helpful.