#Szechuan food is hot and this recipe makes a wonderfully zippy fish dish.# Cut fish into 2 x 1-inch oblong pieces. Rub with salt. Blend the cornstarch with the egg. Dip the fish in the egg mixture to coat on both sides.
Thinly slice the onion. Finely chop the garlic, ginger, chilies, pickle and dried chili.
Heat 4 tbsps oil in a large frying pan. Add the onion and other chopped vegetables and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
Add the stock, soy sauce, paste, Hoisin sauce, sugar, vinegar, and sherry. Stir over a high heat until well reduced.
Heat about 4 cups oil in a deep fryer. When hot, add the fish and fry for 2 minutes. Remove and drain.
Place them in the pan of sauce. Simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes before serving. #TlME# Preparation takes 10 minutes, cooking takes 10 minutes. #COOK'S TIP# If you cannot obtain the Ja Chai pickle, substitute your favorite hot pickle.