How to make Shuizhu Beef

Why cooks start here

Shuizhu Beef is cooked the way Sichuan cooks it — salt judged by hand, fat used generously, and the table set for sharing. This is the home version, written down the way a chinese family cook actually puts it on the table.

Shuizhu Beef is a hallmark of Sichuan cuisine, capturing the fiery spirit that defines the region's culinary landscape. Traditionally enjoyed during family meals, this dish is a celebration of vibrant flavors and communal dining. The home version, as shared here, follows the intuitive methods of a Chinese family cook, emphasizing generous use of fat and a keen eye for seasoning. Expect a bold interplay of heat and flavor, where tender slices of beef swim in a spicy broth infused with the numbing tingle of Sichuan peppercorns and the fiery intensity of dried chilies. The addition of crunchy bean sprouts provides a refreshing contrast, making each bite an exciting textural delight.