Gong Bao Ji Ding (Peanut Chicken)

This recipe is named after a late Qing Dynasty governor of Sichuan, Ding Baozhen, who is said to have particularly enjoyed eating it. Renamed during the Cultural Revolution because it was associated with an imperial bureaucrat, The original name was returned in the 1980's. This dish is a favorite of westerners and a dish common all over China.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 2  boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
• 1  egg white, lightly whisked
• 1⁄3 cup  peanut oil
• 4  dried red chilies, crushed
• 1  teaspoon  whole szechuan peppercorns
• 2  tablespoons soy sauce
• 2  tablespoons  shaoxing wine or 2  tablespoons dry sherry
• 2  tablespoons water
• 2  tablespoons cornstarch
• 2  tablespoons black vinegar or 2  tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1  teaspoon sugar
• 1  garlic clove, finely minced
• 5  scallions, sliced lengthwise
• 1  tablespoon  peeled ginger, sliced thin
• 1⁄2 cup unsalted peanuts or 1⁄2 cup cashews

Directions

1. In a bowl mix wine, soy sauce, water, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, vinegar, sugar. Set aside.
2. Next toss cubed chicken with egg white and 1 tablespoon cornstarch in a separate bowl. Set aside.
3. Heat up peanut oil in a wok and add the crushed red chilies and whole Sichuan peppercorns. Saute until chillies begin to turn brown. Remove chilies mixture and set aside.
4. Place coated chicken in wok over high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
5. Pour out oil, leaving about a tablespoon in wok, reduce heat, and add ginger, scallions, and garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes.
6. Reduce heat to low and add wine mixture, stirring for about 2 minutes or until sauce thickens.
7. Add chicken, nuts, and chilies mixture. Stir over heat for about 4 minutes.