Szechwan Dry-Fried Beef

Directions

To prepare peppercorns, place in an ungreased frying pan and cook, shaking pan frequently, over medium heat until aromatic; cool, then crush with a mortar and pestle or rolling pin.

Set aside.

Cut meat in slices ⅛ inch thick, then cut into shreds ⅛ inch wide and 2 inches long.

In a bowl, combine the hot bean sauce, sherry, sugar and chile peppers; set aside.

Pour salad oil in a wok or small deep pan and heat over medium-high heat to 360 degrees on a deep-frying thermometer.

Add ½ the meat and stir to separate shreds.

Cook until meat is dark brown, slightly shriveled, and chewy (about 2½ to 3 minutes).

Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Reheat oil to 360 degrees and repeat with remainder of the meat.

Pour off all but 3 tablespoons oil.

Increase heat to high.

When oil is hot, add celery and carrot and stir-fry for 2 minutes.

Add garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 30 seconds.

Add onion and stir-fry for 30 seconds.

Return meat to pan, add hot bean sauce mixture, and cook, stirring until most of the liquid has evaporated.

Stir in sesame oil and crushed peppercorns before serving.