When it comes to food, some like it hot

One of the joys of living in China for me is the opportunity it gives to pursue a long-standing interest in Sichuan cooking.

For many years I have thrown together chilies, Sichuan pepper, chili bean paste and other key ingredients to make simple dishes for family meals, and prepared elaborate, multi-course feasts for guests.

I'm not alone in my appreciation of this cuisine, noted for its hot, spicy flavors. Sichuan food can be found in cities across China, and the style's fame has spread around the world. Many major cities in Europe and the United States have Sichuan restaurants.