Looking to make your dish without Sichuan Peppercorns? No problem! We have a list of substitutes that will work just as well. Sichuan Peppercorns are used in many Chinese dishes for their unique flavor and aroma. However, if you’re looking to avoid them or can’t find them in stores, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a variety of substitutes that will give your dish the same flavor profile.
Best Sichuan Peppercorns Substitutes
- Tasmanian pepper
- Grains of paradise
- Tellicherry peppercorns
- Black pepper and coriander seeds
- Lemon pepper seasoning
- Sansho powder
- Ground black pepper + ground coriander seeds + and lemon zest
- Sichuan peppercorn oil
- Sichuan peppercorn salt
- Japanese seven-spice seasoning
- Tellicherry Peppercorns
- Black Pepper
Tasmanian pepper
Tasmanian pepper is a great substitute for Sichuan peppercorns. The two spices have a very similar flavor profile, with Tasmanian pepper being slightly more pungent. To use Tasmanian pepper as a substitute, simply use a 1:1 ratio.
Tasmanian pepper is also a great way to add a little heat to dishes without overwhelming the other flavors. Some common ingredients that Tasmanian pepper goes well with include chicken, fish, and vegetables.
I personally love to use Tasmanian pepper in stir-fries. It adds just enough heat and complexity to the dish without overpowering the other flavors.
Grains of paradise
Grains of paradise can be used as a substitute for Sichuan peppercorns in a 2:1 ratio. Grains of paradise work well in dishes that also call for other herbs and spices, such as ginger, cloves, and cinnamon.
For example, I recently made a dish that called for Sichuan peppercorns, but I didn’t have any on hand. I substituted grains of paradise, and the dish turned out great.
The flavor was slightly different than if I had used Sichuan peppercorns, but it was still delicious. If you’re looking for an alternative to Sichuan peppercorns, give grains of paradise a try.
Tellicherry peppercorns
Tellicherry peppercorns are a great substitute for Sichuan peppercorns. They have a similar flavor profile and can be used in a 1-to-1 ratio when replacing Sichuan peppercorns.
Tellicherry peppercorns work well in stir-fries, curries, and other dishes where Sichuan peppercorns would traditionally be used. I like to use Tellicherry peppercorns in conjunction with other herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile.
For example, in a stir-fry, I might use Tellicherry peppercorns, ginger, garlic, and chili pepper. This combination of flavors is sure to please any palate.
Black pepper and coriander seeds
Another excellent alternative to Sichuan peppercorns is a combination of black pepper and coriander seeds. To use this substitute, grind the black pepper and coriander seeds together in a ratio of
This combination works well in dishes that also call for other spices, such as cumin, cloves, and cardamom. I’ve used this combination in a variety of dishes, including curries, or stir-fries.
In a curry, the black pepper and coriander seeds add a nice depth of flavor without being too overpowering. In a stir-fry, they add a bit of heat and spice.
Lemon pepper seasoning
Lemon pepper seasoning is a great way to add flavor to your dish without using Sichuan peppercorns. Lemon pepper seasoning is a combination of black pepper, lemon zest, and other spices. It can be used in a 1: 1 ratio when replacing Sichuan peppercorns.
Lemon pepper seasoning goes well with chicken, fish, and vegetables. It can be bought in stores or you could even try making your own at home.
What I really like about this alternative to Sichuan peppercorns is the lemon zest. The lemon zest adds a bright flavor that complements the other ingredients well. If you’re looking for a Sichuan peppercorn substitute that is easy to find and has a versatile flavor, lemon pepper seasoning is a good choice.
Sansho powder
Sansho powder is a great substitute for Sichuan peppercorns. The powder is made from ground berries of the sansho plant, which is related to the citrus family. Sansho powder can be used in a 1: 1 ratio when replacing Sichuan peppercorns.
Sansho powder has a unique flavor that is both spicy and citrusy. It goes well with vegetables, noodles, sushi, and grilled meats. I personally love to use sansho powder in noodle dishes. The powder adds a nice depth of flavor without being too spicy.
If you can’t find Sichuan peppercorns, or if you’re looking for an alternative with a unique flavor, sansho powder is a good choice.
Ground black pepper + ground coriander seeds + and lemon zest
Another great replacement for Sichuan peppercorns is to combine a mixture of ground black pepper, ground coriander seeds, and lemon zest. This mixture can be used in a 1: 1 ratio when replacing Sichuan peppercorns.
I really like this combination of flavors because it is both spicy and citrusy. This combination goes well with chicken, fish, vegetables, and noodles. I personally love to use this mixture in noodle dishes. The combination of flavors adds a nice improvement to the flavor of most recipes.
Sichuan peppercorn oil
Sichuan peppercorn oil is a great alternative to Sichuan peppercorns. The oil is made from roasted Sichuan peppercorns and has a strong flavor.
Sichuan peppercorn oil can be used in a 1: 1 ratio when replacing Sichuan peppercorns. You can typically find Sichuan peppercorn oil in Asian markets or online.
However, keep in mind that Sichuan peppercorn oil has a strong flavor that can be overpowering if you’re not careful. I like to use this oil sparingly, typically only 1-teaspoon per dish.
If you’re looking for an alternative to Sichuan peppercorns that has a strong flavor, Sichuan peppercorn oil is a good choice. Just be sure to use it sparingly, otherwise, the flavor can be a bit overwhelming.
Sichuan peppercorn salt
Sichuan peppercorn salt is a great substitute for Sichuan peppercorns. To make it at home, simply grind 2 tablespoons of Sichuan peppercorns in a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle, then mix with 4 tablespoons of sea salt.
This pepper salt can be used in any dish that calls for Sichuan peppercorns, and it will impart a similar flavor with a little less heat.
Common ingredients in Sichuan cuisine such as pork, chicken, and mushrooms are all excellent candidates for this pepper salt. I personally like to use it in stir-fries, roasted vegetables, or in soup. It adds a lovely depth of flavor without being overpowering.
Japanese seven-spice seasoning
Japanese seven-spice seasoning, also known as shichimi togarashi, is a common substitute for Sichuan peppercorns. It is a blend of spices that typically includes chili peppers, orange peel, seaweed, sesame seeds, and ginger.
When substituting Japanese seven-spice seasoning for Sichuan peppercorns, use a 1:1 ratio. This means that if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of Sichuan peppercorns, you would use 1 teaspoon of Japanese seven-spice seasoning.
Japanese seven-spice seasoning can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to noodle dishes and rice bowls. I personally like to use it in soups, grilled meats, vegetables, or even salad dressing.
Black Pepper
As any cook knows, Sichuan peppercorns are an essential ingredient in many Asian dishes. They provide a unique flavor that is both spicy and slightly citrusy. However, they can be difficult to find outside of Asia, and they can be expensive.
Fortunately, there are a few substitutes that can be used in a pinch. Black pepper is the most obvious choice, and it can be found in almost any grocery store. When using black pepper as a substitute for Sichuan peppercorns, it is important to use a little bit more than you would normally use, as the flavor will be weaker.
In addition, some other common ingredients such as lemon zest, sea salt, and ginger can help to add depth of flavor. Finally, if you want to add a bit of spice, you can try using a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Sichuan peppercorn powder
Sichuan peppercorn powder is a great alternative to Sichuan peppercorns. The powder is made from ground Sichuan peppercorns and has a strong flavor.
Sichuan peppercorn powder can be used in a 1: 1 ratio when replacing Sichuan peppercorns. You can typically find Sichuan peppercorn powder in Asian markets or online.
Where to buy Sichuan peppercorns
If you’re looking to buy Sichuan peppercorns, they can be found in most Asian markets or online. They can be a bit pricey, but they are definitely worth it for the unique flavor they add to dishes.
Are Sichuan peppercorns spicy
Sichuan peppercorns are not typically extremely spicy. They have a unique flavor that is both spicy and slightly citrusy.
Conclusion
Sichuan peppercorns are a great way to add flavor to your dishes. However, they can be difficult to find and expensive. If you’re looking for a substitute, the options on this list are all great choices. Just be sure to the right ratio so that your dish doesn’t end up too spicy or too bland. With a little experimentation, you’re sure to find the perfect substitute for Sichuan peppercorns.