Sichuan Green Peppercorns

Part of the Xanthium Family which is what gives it those floral and citrus qualities typical of this family.

It is used in both Chinese cooking as well as Chinese medicine due to the slight numbing quality it bestows.

It has a very citrusy aroma, almost exactly like lime. It pairs well with broiled eel, stir-fry, and even a key lime pie.

AROMA: Powerful lime fragrance, slightly numbing

ORIGIN: China

PACKING SIZE:  0.46 oz. (100 ml Grinder Jar), 2.65 oz. (330 ml Jar)

(Grinder sold separately)

DETAILS: 

What is Green Sichuan Pepper?

Green Sichuan Peppercorns are an extraordinary spice that hails from the mesmerizing landscapes of China's southwestern Sichuan province. Prepare yourself to embark on a culinary adventure like no other, as this little green gem promises to be your new favorite food addiction!

As you dare to taste its magic, a tingling, and buzzing sensation dances upon your tongue, teasing and tantalizing your senses with an enchanting allure. It's a symphony of flavors that ignites your taste buds like twinkling stars in the night sky, leaving you utterly spellbound.

The source of this culinary wizardry lies in the presence of hydroxy-alpha sanshool, a natural molecule found in plants from the mystical genus Zanthoxylum. Sichuan Green Peppercorn boasts an abundance of this captivating compound, which creates a sensation that is both numbing and electrifying at the same time.

Are green peppercorns the same as Sichuan?

No, green peppercorns are not the same as Sichuan Green Peppercorns. While they both fall under the category of "Green Peppercorns," they come from different plants and offer distinct flavor profiles and sensory experiences.

Is Sichuan pepper spicy?

Sichuan Green Peppercorns are not spicy in the traditional sense of causing a burning or heat sensation like chili peppers. Instead, it provides a unique and distinct tingling or numbing sensation on the tongue and lips, which is quite different from the typical spiciness associated with chili peppers.

This sensation is often described as "ma" in Sichuan cuisine, and it is an essential component of the famous "Mala" flavor, which is a combination of numbing (ma) and spicy (la) tastes.

Sichuan Peppercorns vs Black Peppercorns

Sichuan peppercorns and black peppercorns are two distinct types of peppercorns that differ in their taste, appearance, and culinary uses.

Black peppercorns are known for their spicy heat, which is due to the presence of the compound piperine. On the other hand, Green Sichuan Peppercorns are not conventionally spicy, but they provide a numbing, tingling feeling instead, mainly due to the compound hydroxy-alpha sanshool.

While black peppercorns are versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes, Sichuan peppercorns are more closely associated with certain cuisines and dishes. They pair exceptionally well with meats, vegetables, and stir-fry dishes, providing a unique flavor dimension.

What are Sichuan peppercorns used for?

Sichuan Green peppercorns are incredibly versatile and have been used for centuries in various ways, both in culinary and medicinal practices. Here are some Sichuan green peppercorns recipes:

They are a staple in Sichuan cuisine and are used in a wide range of dishes to add a unique and distinctive flavor. They are often dried to enhance their aroma and then ground into a fine powder. This powder is an essential ingredient in the famous Chinese Five Spice Powder, which is a blend of spices used to season a variety of dishes. 

Green Sichuan Pepper is also a key component in Chongqing Hot Pot, a popular and fiery hot pot dish from the Sichuan region. In Himalayan cooking, these peppercorns are used to flavor dishes like Momo, a type of dumpling filled with vegetables, cottage cheese, or beef.

They can be used as a seasoning for a wide variety of dishes beyond traditional Chinese and Himalayan cuisine. They can be cracked and sprinkled on grilled meats like rib-eye or pork chop, adding a delightful and tingling twist to the flavors. They also pair well with fall dishes like whipped sweet potatoes and cranberry sauce, providing a unique depth of taste.

A touch of cracked Sichuan peppercorns over striped bass or yellowfin tuna crudo can elevate the flavors and provide a tantalizing experience for the taste buds.

Surprisingly, Sichuan peppercorns can even find their way into desserts. A small amount ground into granulated sugar can be sprinkled over crème brulee, providing a surprising and divine twist to the classic dessert.

What are the benefits of Green Sichuan Peppercorn?

Green Sichuan peppercorn offers more than just a delightful culinary experience. It also comes with some potential health benefits, many of which are attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds in the peppercorns. Here are some Sichuan green peppercorns benefits.

In traditional Chinese medicine, Sichuan Green Peppercorns have been used as an herbal remedy for various health conditions. They have been prescribed for ailments such as abdominal pain, toothache, and other discomforts. 

It is believed to aid digestion and alleviate symptoms such as bloating and indigestion. The hydroxy-alpha sanshool present in the peppercorns may stimulate digestive enzymes and promote better digestion. The unique tingling and numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorn may have mild analgesic (pain-relieving) properties and could potentially provide relief from certain types of discomfort.

However, it's essential to note that scientific research on the specific health benefits of Sichuan peppercorn is still limited, and further studies are needed to fully understand its effects.

Where to buy Sichuan Peppercorns?

You can buy Sichuan Green Peppercorns online at Lafayette Spices, an excellent store that offers a wide range of high-quality spices and culinary delights. 

At Lafayette Spices, you can rest assured that you are getting authentic and the best Sichuan peppercorns to enhance your culinary creations and embark on a flavorful journey like no other. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the unique tingling and buzzing sensation of Green Sichuan peppercorns in your favorite dishes.

BARCODE: 3265960478239