Name of Food: Sichuan Peppers Food Facts: Sichuan Peppers (Zanthoxylum bugeanum) are the seeds of a short plant that is indigenous to China. The “pepper” itself is actually considered a berry, and somewhat resembles a small cherry in its natural form. These seeds are turned into peppercorns that are used in a variety of seasonings, sauces, and dishes to add spice and flavor (Dott, 2020). Historical and Cultural Facts: The Sichuan pepper gets its name from the Sichuan region of China from which it originates. The Chinese name for this plant, Hua Jiao, translates literally to flower pepper.” Sichuan pepper also has uses in Chinese medicine, in which it can serve to correct imbalances of “cold” due to the spice and warmth it provides (Sichuan Pepper in Chinese Medicine, 2021). Nutrient Composition: Sichuan pepper can be good sources of potassium, vitamin A, iron, manganese, zinc, copper, and phosphorus (Staughton, 2021) Serving size- 100 gm Calories- 281 kcal Fat- 4.7 gm Carbohydrates- 21.9 gm Fiber- 0 gm Protein- 37.5 gm Relationship with Disease: Sichuan pepper, due to the amount of iron it contains, has been shown to stimulate your circulatory system and prevent you from feeling lethargic. Due to the levels of zinc in Sichuan pepper, it can also potentially strengthen your immune system. The antioxidants contained in Sichuan pepper have also been shown to reduce inflammation and aid in conditions such as arthritis or gout (Staughton, 2021). Agricultural Information: Sichuan plants can resemble a bush or shrub when they are grown to be harvested. Depending on the specific species, they have the potential to grow anywhere from 2 to 5 meters in height. Sichuan plants are best planted in the spring or fall seasons, and in Asian countries like China, Japan, or India, they are often planted in rows and pruned regularly. This helps make the hand-picking process less difficult when it comes time to harvest (Sichuan pepper – caring and growing, 2021) Selection and Storage: Fresh Sichuan peppercorns should be aromatic, with a bright color to them. They should be stored in an airtight container and away from high amounts of light or moisture. If stored correctly, whole peppercorns can last up to several years without losing their potency. If they are ground and then stored, however, they will lose their flavor after several months (Sichuan Peppercorns – everything you need to know, 2021) Preparation: Once the berries are ready to be harvested, they are picked from their plants and left out to dry. The berries will dry until they open up and release their seeds on the inside, which are inedible. The dried berries are then cleaned and inspected before they are packaged and ready to use to add spice or flavor to any dish (Tshitundu & Wei). Some cultural dishes that can be made include: Chinese dumplings with Sichuan peppercorns – traditional Chinese dumplings made from flower, water, a vegetable and meat of your choice, along with a chili oil to coat the exterior. The peppercorns are sprinkled on top to add flavor. Dott, B. (2020, January 14). A battle of peppers. Chinese Food History. Retrieved November 22, 2021, from https://www.chinesefoodhistory.org/post/a-battle-of-peppers. Facebook.com/thewoksoflife. (2021, June 17). Sichuan peppercorns: Everything you need to know. The Woks of Life. Retrieved November 22, 2021, from https://thewoksoflife.com/sichuan-peppercorns/. Sichuan pepper (Hua Jiao) in chinese medicine. (Hua Jiao) in Chinese Medicine. (n.d.). Retrieved November 22, 2021, from https://www.meandqi.com/herb-database/sichuan-pepper. Sichuan pepper – care and growing, varieties & pests – with video tips! Nature and garden. (2021, October 27). Retrieved November 22, 2021, from https://www.nature-and-garden.com/gardening/sichuan-peppertree.html. Staughton, J. (2021, June 25). 10 impressive benefits of Sichuan Pepper. Organic Facts. Retrieved November 22, 2021, from https://www.organicfacts.net/sichuan-pepper.html. Tshitundu, C. T., & Wei, C. (2021, September 29). What are Sichuan peppercorns? First of all, they're not peppers. Bon Appétit. Retrieved November 22, 2021, from https://www.bonappetit.com/story/sichuanpeppercorns.
