Spicy Sichuan Pork Wontons in Vinegar Chili Sauce

1. Prepare the Wonton Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the ground pork shoulder, kosher salt, sugar, finely ground white pepper, minced scallions or Chinese chives, minced fresh garlic, and Shaoxing wine or dry sherry. Use your hands to knead the mixture until it becomes homogenous and sticky, about one minute. This ensures the ingredients are well-blended and the texture holds together well.

2. Adjust Seasoning

To make sure your seasoning is just right, take a teaspoon-sized amount of the filling, place it on a microwave-safe plate, and microwave for about ten seconds until cooked through. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

3. Prepare the Wontons

Set up your wonton station by arranging a small bowl of water, a dish towel, your wonton filling, a parchment-lined baking sheet, and the wonton wrappers within easy reach. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper, then fold it to form a triangle, pressing out any air pockets and sealing the edges firmly.

4. Prepare the Sauce

Toast the whole dried Chinese red peppers and Sichuan peppercorns on a microwave-safe plate in the microwave for about fifteen seconds until fragrant. Crush the toasted spices using a mortar and pestle or a food processor until you have a coarse mixture.

5. Combine the Sauce Ingredients

Heat the vegetable or canola oil in a small saucepan until it shimmers, then carefully pour the hot oil over the crushed spice mixture in a heatproof bowl. The oil should sizzle, releasing the aromatic flavors from the spices. Stir in the roasted sesame oil, Chinkiang vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, minced fresh garlic, and toasted sesame seeds. Mix well to combine and set aside.

6. Cook the Wontons

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the wontons in batches of 12 to 16, ensuring they have enough space to float freely. Boil the wontons for about four minutes until they are cooked through and tender.

7. Serve the Wontons

To serve, transfer the cooked wontons to a warm serving platter. Spoon the sauce generously over the wontons, and if you like, sprinkle with lightly crushed roasted peanuts and minced fresh cilantro leaves and fine stems. Enjoy your Spicy Sichuan Pork Wontons in Vinegar Chili Sauce while they're hot for the best flavor experience.