1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns
1 star anise
500g/1lb 2oz pork belly, skin scored
1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
2 garlic cloves, finely grated
thumb-sized piece fresh root ginger, peeled and finely grated
4 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
1 tsp grated palm sugar or...