Sichuan Vanilla Layer Cake

Method

1. Start by prepping your all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, eggs so the cooking goes quickly.
2. Set a wide pan over medium heat and sweat the leeks in a little butter until translucent.
3. Add the vanilla layer and let it skillet, undisturbed, so it takes on real color before you stir.
4. Stir in the olive oil along with a good pinch of salt, scraping up anything stuck to the bottom of the pan.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook until thickened and glossy.
6. Taste and adjust, then finish with a grating of hard cheese right before serving.
7. Serve warm, ideally with something to soak up the sauce.