tiger skin and pepper recipe

How to Make Tiger Skin Chili Peppers

Tiger skin chili peppers (虎皮尖椒) are a popular Chinese stir-fry dish named for their blistered, golden-brown skin resembling a tiger’s stripes. Here’s a simple guide to making them at home.

Ingredients: 8-10 green chilies (long and slightly spicy), 2-3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tbsp cooking wine, 2 tbsp oil, and a pinch of salt.

Steps:

1. Prep the chilies: Rinse and pat dry the chilies. Cut off the stems but leave the tops intact. For less heat, scrape out the seeds with a small knife.

2. Blanch (optional): For softer skin, blanch chilies in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain. Skip for a crunchier texture.

3. Stir-fry: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add chilies and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until their skin blisters and turns dark green with golden spots. Press them gently against the wok to enhance blistering.

4. Season: Add minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds). Pour in soy sauce, cooking wine, sugar, and salt. Toss quickly to coat the chilies evenly.

5. Finish: Cook for another minute until the sauce thickens slightly. Turn off the heat and serve hot with rice or noodles.

Tip: Adjust spice by choosing milder chilies or removing seeds. The dish balances heat, umami, and a hint of sweetness, making it a flavorful addition to any meal. Enjoy!