Chinese Spicy, Sweet and Sour Lamb Chops

In a large baking dish, whisk the egg whites until foamy. Whisk in the soy sauce, sake and sherry, then whisk in the cornstarch and baking soda until smooth. Add the lamb chops and turn to coat. Cover and let marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.

In a medium bowl, whisk the soy sauce with the brown sugar, stock, vinegar, rendered bacon fat, sesame oil and cornstarch.

In a large bowl, whisk the cornstarch with the tapioca flour, salt and baking soda. In a large saucepan, heat 1/2 inch of peanut oil to 375°. Remove half of the lamb from the marinade, letting the excess drip back into the baking dish. Dredge the lamb in the cornstarch mixture, patting it on lightly so it adheres. Fry the lamb over moderately high heat, turning once, until browned all over, 2 to 3 minutes total. Transfer to a paper towel–lined baking sheet to drain. Let the oil return to 375° and repeat with the remaining lamb.

Carefully pour the hot oil from the saucepan into a heatproof bowl. Wipe out the saucepan and heat the 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in it. Add the chiles, ginger, star anise, scallions and garlic and stir-fry over high heat until the garlic is golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the sauce, then add the lamb chops and cook, turning, until the lamb is coated and the sauce is thick, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a platter and serve.