How is Sichuan Pepper used in Thai cooking?

Sichuan pepper - prik thai say chuan - isn't really hot at all; its magic is a tingling, numbing buzz the Chinese call 'ma'. Intensely aromatic with lemony overtones, it sets the tongue gently vibrating rather than burning. Bite into one and you'll feel that fizzing, mouth-buzzing sensation straight away. In Northern Thai cooking it's part of warm spice blends like larb muang, where its citrusy fragrance and numbing tingle play against the chili heat. We toast it lightly first to bring out the aroma before grinding.

Can I cook with Sichuan Pepper in a Chiang Mai cooking class?

Yes - we use Sichuan Pepper in our hands-on classes. Explore them on our Cooking Classes page.

Sichuan Pepper - Essential Thai Spices | Thai Akha Kitchen

Sichuan pepper - prik thai say chuan - isn't really hot at all; its magic is a tingling, numbing buzz the Chinese call 'ma'. Intensely aromatic with…

Sichuan Pepper - Essential Thai Spices | Thai Akha Kitchen Sichuan pepper - prik thai say chuan - isn't really hot at all; its magic is a tingling, numbing buzz the Chinese call 'ma'. Intensely aromatic with…