Pairing Kung Pao Chicken correctly — a note on Shaoxing rice wine

Most people overlook how much the right drink changes Kung Pao Chicken. I ordered it with Shaoxing rice wine and the rich with umami elements of the dish sharpened considerably against the pairing. Sichuan peppercorn in particular became more prominent in a good way.

communal sharing at the table is culturally central. The a family banquet table is where you learn these pairings — they evolved together. If you've been having Kung Pao Chicken with the wrong drink, try it correctly once. It's a genuinely different experience. The restaurant deserves credit for getting this right.