12 Ways With Sichuan Pepper

Sichuan pepper has characteristics Chinese cooks describe as 'ma-la' – 'numbing and hot' (your mouth will make you very aware of this spice's presence when you eat it!). It's an essential ingredient in Chinese dishes such as mapo-tofu, and the rising popularity of southern Chinese cooking has inspired chefs around the world to experiment with this forthright spice. Give your palate a surprise with these recipes.