Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 people
Level
medium
Rating
This authentic-style variation replaces the standard peanuts with buttery toasted cashews and emphasizes the signature 'ma-la' numbing heat using Szechuan peppercorns. The sauce balances savory soy, tart black vinegar, and a hint of sweetness for a restaurant-quality dish made right at home.
In a bowl, toss the peeled prawns with the cornstarch and 1 teaspoon of water. Let them marinate for 10 minutes while you prep the vegetables.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, black vinegar, and sugar to make the stir-fry sauce.
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the Szechuan peppercorns and dried red chilies.
Stir-fry the spices for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant and the chilies darken slightly, being careful not to burn them.
Increase the heat to high. Add the prawns to the pan in a single layer.
Sear the prawns for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
Add the sliced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the scallions. Stir-fry constantly for 30 seconds until aromatic.
Pour the sauce mixture over the prawns and toss rapidly to coat. The sauce should thicken slightly due to the cornstarch on the prawns.
Stir in the roasted cashews and the green parts of the scallions.
Toss everything together for a final 30 seconds and serve immediately over steamed rice.

Stir-fry

Stir-fry

Stir-fry

Stir-fry

Stir-fry

Stir-fry