Classic Dry-Fried Pepper and Salt Shrimp

Step 1: Make a brine of 1 tbsp. salt and 1 quart cold water.

Step 2: Stir the shrimp in the brine for about a minute, then drain; repeat.

Step 3: Rinse the shrimp under cold water, then drain ad pat dry.

Step 4: In a small bowl combine the remaining 1/2 tsp. salt, sugar, and ground Sichuan peppercorns (grind in a mortar or spice mill then sift to remove the unwanted husks).

Step 5: Cook garlic, ginger and chili in a tbsp. oil in a hot nonstick skillet for about one minute or until fragrant.

Step 6: Move the aromatics to one side and add the shrimp, spreading them in a single layer flat against the pan.

Step 7: Cook undisturbed 1 minute, letting the shrimp begin to sear.

Step 8: Swirl in the remaining 1 Tbs. oil and stir-fry 1 minute or until the shrimp just begin to curl.

Step 9: Sprinkle on the salt mixture and stir-fry 1 to 2 minutes or until the shrimp are just cooked.