Instructions: To prepare chicken: Cut breasts into 1/2-inch cubes, slicing first lengthwise with the grain, then across into cubes. Put cubes in a bowl with salt and rice wine. Mix well, then add egg white, cornstarch and 1 tablespoon oil; stir until coated. Cover and chill for 30 to 60 minutes.

Bring water to a boil in a medium pan. Add chicken, stirring to separate the pieces. Bring the water back to a boil; simmer 1 minute, stirring constantly. Drain in a colander; let cool to room temperature.

Meanwhile, prepare sauce: Whisk together cornstarch, rice wine, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, salt and sesame oil.

To stir-fry: Heat wok over high heat for 30 seconds. Drizzle in oil to coat bottom and sides; heat 30 seconds. Lower heat. Add chilies; toss until they begin to brown, about 1 minute. Add ginger; stir-fry a few seconds. Discard chilies. Increase heat to high. Add snow peas; stir-fry 30 to 60 seconds, until just starting to wilt. Add chicken; stir-fry until very hot, about 30 to 60 seconds. Give sauce a quick stir and add to wok, tossing to coat chicken and peas. Stir in cashews; heat briefly. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Yields 4 servings.

Comments:
This recipe, which is not as difficult as it may look, demonstrates a technique called "velveting. "Anne Willan, author of "Cook It Right,"explains that velveting seals the chicken and keeps it from drying out in the hot wok.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.