Szechuan pepper is a really interesting spice that has a mouth-watering numbing effect, making this fragrant pork dish ...

Hot pepper, an important flavoring in Sichuan cuisine, was introduced into China only 200 to 300 years ago. During the period of the Three Kingdoms, the kingdom of Shu was located in Sichuan.

Sichuan pepper is sold as whole berries or a ground powder. Try to buy the freshest berries you can, as they quickly lose their pungency.