Prep Time::15 mins
Cook Time::20 mins
Total Time::35 mins
Servings::15
Ingredients
8 ounces dried fermented black beans
1 ½ cups vegetable oil
4 Thai chiles, chopped
1 medium shallot, minced
1 (2 inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons reduced-sodium tamari
2 tablespoons Shaoxing rice wine
1 teaspoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground Sichuan pepper
½ teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Directions
Rinse black beans thoroughly and dry. Remove about 1/4 cup and set aside. Roughly chop the rest of the beans.
Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add chiles, shallot, ginger, and garlic. Fry until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Do not let the ingredients burn. Reduce the heat if necessary. The objective is to slow cook the ingredients.
Add all the beans; both chopped and whole. Simmer, stirring often, until the beans are soft, about 2 minutes. Add tamari, rice wine, brown sugar, ground Sichuan pepper, and five spice. Simmer until thickened, stirring often. Remove from heat; let cool, about 10 minutes.
Mix in sesame oil and cover. As the sauce rests, the beans will settle and the oil will float, creating a barrier which will protect it from mold. The sauce is ready to use or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Recipe Tips
The sauce can be frozen in small portions for a quick, easy stir-fry.
Use about 1/4 cup for a stir-fry for 4 people. Dilute with a bit of broth, water, or soy sauce.
Makes a great marinade for ribs, chicken, or fish.
Add a dollop to your favorite ramen dish, as it is a perfect base for noodle dishes or soups.
Editor's Note:
Not to be confused with regular black beans, fermented black beans can be found in your local Asian food store or online. They are either canned in liquid or dried and sold in resealable bags. If using the canned type, drain before rinsing.