Dan Dan Pappardelle

Step 1

Toast Sichuan peppercorns in a small skillet over medium-high heat, tossing often, until slightly darkened and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a spice mill or mortar and pestle and let cool; finely grind.

Step 2

Stir ground Sichuan peppercorns, sesame paste, vinegar, sugar, 2 Tbsp. chile crisp, and 2 Tbsp. soy sauce in a small bowl to combine; set aside.

Step 3

Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add pork, five-spice powder, and remaining 1 tsp. soy sauce to pan, breaking meat up into pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook, undisturbed, until it begins to brown, about 3 minutes. Stir and continue to cook, breaking up meat into smaller pieces, until cooked through, about 2 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and add Sichuan peppercorn mixture; set aside.

Step 4

Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until 1 minute short of al dente. Using tongs, transfer pasta to skillet with sauce and pour in ½ cup pasta cooking liquid. Bring to a simmer and cook, tossing gently, until sauce is creamy and clings to pasta, about 1 minute. Drizzle in remaining 1 Tbsp. chile crisp.

Step 5

Divide pasta among plates and top with peanuts and scallions.