You will find many of the ingredients in local Asian stores. Don’t be put off by names you don’t recognise, like shaoxing or Chinese rice cooking wine; sherry, or any other rice wine, will suffice. If you cannot find potato flour, cornflour is fine, (although potato flour will create a crisper result and when used for thickening the sauce will be richer and clearer). A good wok is a worthwhile investment for quick and efficient cooking of Asian food.The key to this black bean and chicken recipe is the marinating; it’s important to allow the flavours to develop over time. Once that is done the process is quick and simple. I prefer the peppers to retain a bit of crunch, but it depends on taste. This dish is also delicious the next day.