Introduction

Sichuan Pepper Beef Brisket is a delightful dish that brings a unique blend of flavors to the table. Combining tender beef brisket with the aromatic and numbing qualities of Sichuan peppercorns, this recipe creates a harmonious balance of spice and savory taste. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish showcases the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine while being accessible to home cooks.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Beef Brisket – 1.5 kg
Sichuan Peppercorns – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 piece (about 5 cm), sliced
Spring Onions – 4, chopped
Red Chilli – 1, sliced
Star Anise – 2
Soy Sauce – 100 ml
Rice Wine – 100 ml
Beef Stock – 500 ml
Brown Sugar – 1 tablespoon
Vegetable Oil – 2 tablespoons
Salt – to taste
Black Pepper – to taste

Prep Time

The preparation time for this delicious Sichuan Pepper Beef Brisket is approximately 20 minutes. During this time, you will be able to gather all the ingredients, chop the vegetables, and prepare the marinade for the meat.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for this recipe is about 3 hours. When combined with the prep time, the total time comes to approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. This recipe yields 4 to 6 servings, making it an ideal choice for sharing with family or friends. Enjoy the process and the flavorful results of this enticing dish!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering your ingredients. You will need beef brisket, Sichuan peppercorns, fresh ginger, garlic, and other seasonings as specified.

Cook the Beef

Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef brisket. Cut the brisket into bite-sized pieces.

Toast the Sichuan Peppercorns

In a dry frying pan over medium heat, toast the Sichuan peppercorns until fragrant. This should take about 1-2 minutes.

Grind the Peppercorns

Transfer the toasted Sichuan peppercorns to a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder and grind them to a powder.

Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine the beef pieces with the ground Sichuan pepper, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and any additional seasonings. Allow it to marinate for at least one hour, or overnight for best results.

Heat the Pan

Place a large frying pan or wok over high heat and add cooking oil.

Cook the Marinated Beef

Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in batches. Sear the meat on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics

After browning the beef, add sliced onions, and any remaining garlic or ginger. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Add Sauce and Reduce

Pour in any sauce mixture you prepared, allowing it to simmer and reduce for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Serve the Dish

Once the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from heat. Serve the Sichuan pepper beef brisket hot over rice or noodles.

Notes

Adjust Spiciness

Feel free to adjust the amount of Sichuan peppercorns according to your heat preference.

Cooking Time

Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the beef pieces and the heat of your stove. Ensure the beef is tender before serving.

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Cook techniques

Slow cooking

Slow cooking is essential for tenderizing the tough brisket meat. It allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become juicy and fall-apart tender.

Searing

Searing the brisket before cooking enhances the depth of flavor. This technique caramelizes the surface of the meat, creating a rich, complex taste.

Marination

Marinating the beef with spices like Sichuan pepper can infuse it with aromatic flavors. It also helps to tenderize the meat before the main cooking process.

Building flavors

Layering different aromatics, such as garlic and onion, during cooking contributes to a more nuanced and flavorful dish.

Resting

Allowing the brisket to rest after cooking is important. This process lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it more succulent when sliced.

FAQ

What is Sichuan pepper and how does it affect the flavor?

Sichuan pepper is a unique spice known for its numbing effect and citrusy flavor. It adds a distinctive taste that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

While brisket is ideal for slow cooking, other cuts like chuck or short ribs can work as substitutes, though the cooking times may vary.

How long does the brisket need to cook?

The cooking time will depend on the size of the brisket and method used, but it typically requires several hours of low, slow cooking to achieve tenderness.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, this recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker. Just follow the same preparation steps and cook on low for a few hours until the meat is tender.

What can I serve with Sichuan pepper beef brisket?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables, providing a balanced and delicious meal.

Conclusion

Sichuan Pepper Beef Brisket is a flavorful dish that combines the unique numbing spice of Sichuan peppercorns with tender brisket, creating a rich, aromatic experience. This recipe not only highlights the robust flavors of beef but also introduces an adventurous twist, making it a perfect choice for those looking to explore new culinary horizons. By carefully balancing the spices and cooking methods, you can achieve a delightful meal that impresses both family and guests alike.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Stir-Fried Noodles with Beef and Vegetables

Pair your Sichuan pepper beef brisket with stir-fried noodles tossed in seasonal vegetables and a splash of soy sauce for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Spicy Szechuan Chicken

Try making Szechuan-style chicken as a side dish, using similar spices and cooking techniques to create a cohesive dining experience.

Garlic Bok Choy

Add a side of garlic bok choy to introduce a fresh and crunchy element to your meal, balancing the richness of the beef.

Steamed Jasmine Rice

Serve the brisket over a bed of steamed jasmine rice, allowing the juicy sauce to soak into the grains for a comforting touch.

Sichuan Cucumber Salad

Entice your palate with a refreshing Sichuan cucumber salad, providing a cool contrast to the spiciness of the brisket.

Honey Soy Glazed Carrots

Roast honey soy glazed carrots for a sweet side that complements the savory heat of the beef while adding vibrant color to your plate.