Peppercorn Salt

¼ C. Coarse Salt

2 T. Szechuan Peppercorns

 

2 Egg Whites

3 oz. ground Pork fat or blanched Fatty Bacon

1 lb. peeled and deveined Shrimp, chopped to a fine paste

1 T. Chinese Rice Wine

1 T. Tapioca Starch

1 tsp. Salt

1/8 tsp. White Pepper

1 ½” piece fresh Gingeroot

2 C. Peanut or Vegetable Oil

 

Heat salt and peppercorns in dry pan over low heat. Stir until salt is browned and peppercorns are darkened and fragrant. Let cool, then crush with back of wooden spoon, or grind in blender. Strain through fine sieve; set aside. Beat egg whites until foamy; add ground pork fat and beat 2 minutes. Add ground shrimp, rice wine, tapioca starch, salt and pepper. With a garlic press, squeeze the juice from gingerroot; add juice to shrimp mixture. Mix well. Heat wok over high heat until very hot. Add oil and heat over medium heat. With left hand, take a handful of the shrimp paste and squeeze your fingers into a fist. A ball about the size of the walnut will spurt from between your thumb and forefinger. With right hand, use a measuring tablespoon dipped in cold water to scoop up the shrimp ball and drop it into the hot oil. Repeat to make about 12 balls. Fry, turning frequently, about 2 minutes, or until they float to the top and become fluffy. Do no overcook; over frying will shrink them. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate to drain. Serve hot with peppercorn salt. From: Dim Sum Made Easy