Chung gave us a number of essential Sichuan pantry ingredients to stock up on, telling us, "Sichuan peppercorn, doubanjiang (spicy fermented broad bean paste), spicy dry chili, chili flakes ...

The sweet and spicy taste of the tianmian sauce and doubanjiang were entirely new ... surprised to learn that cabbage was not used in the recipe, he became fascinated by the simple bold flavor ...

Meanwhile, whisk the vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil and as much doubanjiang or chilli oil as you fancy together in a little bowl. Keep aside until later to top the soup. When the chicken is tender ...