川菜 is one of China's Eight Great Cuisines (
八大菜系), characterized by the signature
麻辣 (málà) flavor — the tongue-numbing tingle of Sichuan peppercorns (
花椒) combined with the heat of chili peppers. Iconic dishes include
麻婆豆腐 (mapo tofu),
回锅肉 (twice-cooked pork), and
水煮鱼 (water-boiled fish).
