- 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns
- 1/4 cup peanut oil
- Special equipment: an electric coffee/spice grinder
- Pulse peppercorns in grinder until coarsely ground.
- Heat oil with peppercorns in a 1- to 1 1/2-quart heavy saucepan over moderate heat, swirling pan occasionally, until peppercorns turn a shade darker, about 1 minute, then transfer to a heatproof bowl and cool to room temperature. Stir before using.