Chinese Courgettes Stir Fry
A delicious and authentic sichuan and regional recipe for Chinese Courgettes Stir Fry, prepared with traditional seasonings and techniques.
Ingredients
- • 1 lb courgettes
- • 1 teaspoon salt ((Optional))
- • 1 tablespoon peanut oil ((or vegetable oil))
- • 4 dried chilli pepper
- • 1/2 tablespoon minced ginger
- • 2 garlic cloves (, minced)
- • 1/4 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns
- • 1 teaspoon soy sauce ((or to taste) (*Footnote 1))
Preparation Steps
Remove the tough ends from the courgettes. Halve it lengthwise, then cut into 1/4” (4 mm) thick half-moon slices.
(Optional but highly recommended) Transfer the courgettes to a large bowl and add 1 teaspoon salt. Mix well and set aside for 10 minutes. Once done, drain and discard the water from the bowl. Rinse the courgettes with cold tap water to remove the salt. Drain again and gently squeeze excess water from the courgettes. (*Footnote 2)
Add oil to a medium-sized frying pan and heat over medium-high heat until hot. Add the dried chilli pepper, ginger and garlic. Stir a few times to release fragrance.
Add the ground Sichuan peppercorns and the courgettes. Cook and stir for 1 minute. Swirl in the soy sauce. Cook until the courgettes has softened, but is still a bit crisp, 1 to 2 minutes. Turn down the heat and try a piece of courgettes. Sprinkle a bit more salt if needed. Transfer everything to a big plate and serve hot as a side dish.