Crispy Wok-Fried Chile Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine the egg white, cornstarch, soy sauce, wine, sesame oil and 1 teaspoon of the salt. Add the chicken and turn to coat. Let stand for 15 minutes. Remove the chicken from the marinade and transfer to a large bowl. Add the rice flour and toss to coat, separating the pieces of chicken as necessary. Transfer the chicken to a colander and shake well to remove any excess rice flour. In a wok, heat the canola oil to 300 °. Add the chiles and fry until bright red and plump, about 15 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chiles to another large bowl. Heat the oil to 350 °. Add half of the chicken and fry over high heat, stirring occasionally, until golden, crisp and cooked through, about 4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken to the bowl with the chiles. Repeat with the remaining chicken. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of oil from the wok. Add the Sichuan peppercorns, ginger and garlic and stir-fry over moderate heat until softened but not browned, about 30 seconds. Add the scallions and stir-fry for 15 seconds. Add the chicken, chiles, sugar and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of salt and stir-fry until hot, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the basil until wilted, then transfer the chicken and chiles to a bowl and serve right away.