Pao jiao is edible by itself. It can be added into stir-fries, salads, and marinades for some extra flavor. A good example of a dish that uses pao jiao is the famous Sichuan dish xu xiang rou si (fish fragrant shredded pork stir fry).
You can find pao jiao in a jar in Chinese market. You could also use Cajun pickled pepper or pickled jalapeno as an alternatives.
