Forktionary

Szechuan Sauce

N/A (Condiment) Condiment

Szechuan Sauce Condiment

At a Glance

  • Category Condiment

The Forktionary Angle

"Experience the electrifying 'mala' (numbing and spicy) kick that defines this iconic Chinese culinary staple."

Definition

A spicy, savory, and often slightly sweet Chinese sauce originating from Sichuan cuisine, characterized by the numbing heat of Sichuan peppercorns.

Defining Spice Sichuan peppercorns (huājiāo) create the 'mala' sensation
Primary Use Popular in stir-fries, dipping sauce, and marinades
Regional Origin Sichuan Province, China, known for bold flavors

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Szechuan Sauce are:

Spicy numbing savory sweet aromatic

Chef’s Secret

Toast whole Sichuan peppercorns before grinding or infusing in oil to maximize their potent numbing aroma.

Best Substitutes

Chili Garlic Sauce

less complex, no numbing, ratio
Ratio 1:1

Gochujang

Korean, different profile, start with 0.
Ratio 5:1

Buying Guide

Check for authentic ingredients, especially Sichuan peppercorns. Adjust spice level to preference.

Culinary Pairings

Chicken beef tofu noodles rice spring rolls

Recipes Using Szechuan Sauce

3 Dragons Szechuan Steak image
Stir Fry Technique Beef Dietary

3 Dragons Szechuan Steak

Ignite your taste buds with this fiery 3 Dragons Szechuan Steak! This Asian-inspired recipe delivers a sizzling blend of savory steak, aromatic vegetables, and a mouthwatering Szechuan sauce. Ready in under an hour, it's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests. Double the chili for extra heat! Serve with cold sesame noodles for a complete and unforgettable meal. #SzechuanSteak #AsianRecipe #SpicyFood #QuickDinner #EasyRecipe #SteakRecipe

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5 Tablespoon Shrimp Stir Fry image
Time To Make 15 Minutes Or Less Shellfish For 1 Or 2

5 Tablespoon Shrimp Stir Fry

Ready in just 13 minutes, this vibrant shrimp stir-fry bursts with flavor! A simple 5-tablespoon marinade elevates succulent shrimp to deliciousness. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch.

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Asian Maryland Fusion Hard Cider Shrimp image
Time To Make Shellfish 60 Minutes Or Less For 1 Or 2

Asian Maryland Fusion Hard Cider Shrimp

Craving shrimp scampi but short on ingredients? This inventive fusion recipe transforms a simple craving into a culinary adventure! Blending the bright flavors of Asian cuisine with the unexpected tang of Maryland hard cider, this shrimp scampi variation is surprisingly delicious and easy to make in just 49 minutes. Get ready for a taste explosion that will leave you wanting more!

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