Spicy Sichuan Pork Wontons in Chili Oil

1. Prepare the Wonton Filling

Begin by slicing the napa cabbage finely and mixing it with the sea salt. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. The salt will draw out the water from the cabbage, making it wilt and reducing its volume significantly. While the cabbage is resting, combine the ground pork, water, neutral oil, toasted sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, grated ginger, sugar, and white pepper in a bowl. Stir this mixture vigorously until it turns into a paste-like consistency. Once the cabbage has wilted, squeeze out any excess water and mix it into the pork mixture thoroughly.

2. Assemble the Wontons

Prepare a sheet pan lined with parchment paper and a small bowl of water for sealing the wontons. Place a small spoonful of the pork filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Dip your finger in the water bowl and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper over the filling to form a rectangle, ensuring the edges are sealed tightly. Place the assembled wontons on the prepared sheet pan.

3. Make the Sauce

In a large heatproof bowl, combine the minced garlic, sugar, and ground Sichuan peppercorns. Heat the neutral oil in a small saucepan until it is very hot, then carefully pour it over the garlic mixture. This will release the flavors from the spices and garlic, creating a fragrant base for the sauce. After the initial sizzling subsides, mix in the Ultimate Chili Oil, light soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil. The mixture will be aromatic and slightly bubbling.

4. Cook the Wontons and Serve

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the assembled wontons into the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, indicating they are done. This should take just a few minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked wontons to a serving bowl. Toss the wontons in the prepared sauce until they are well-coated. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped scallions, and cilantro if desired. Serve immediately, enjoying the spicy and savory delight of your homemade Sichuan wontons.