Real Sichuan taste. I've lived in China, been to Chengdu and fell in love with the flavors. I have spent the rest of my adult life hunting for the real Sichuan. I'd say 60-70% of the things labeled "Sichuan" in the united states fall short. Usually just a little spicy but its not the full flavor. This stuff does it right and does not shy away from the numbing pepper. The peppers are good quality too. Its got the tingly somewhat sour herbaceous tang. It is very spicy. Its got that after burn. It will beat you up and get you coming back for more. My face is red. My eyes are teary. My tongue is tingly. I am happy and satisfied. If you long for Sichuan, this is the stuff. Regarding the peanut quality: I get the vacuum sealed peanuts from the Asian market all the time. They are way better than most of your grocery store peanuts, no idea why. These are right up there for crispness and freshness.