Spicy Sichuan Shrimp - The Spice House

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 tablespoons oil
• 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns
• 2 tablespoons Tien Tsin chile peppers
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, finely chopped (about 1/2" gingerroot)
• 3 medium cloves fresh garlic, coarsely chopped
• 4 scallions, finely chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 pound raw shrimp, shelled and deveined
• For the Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or 1 packet of Splenda)
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 4 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (optional)