NM: This province of China contains 2% of world's population. From 1937 to 1946, a city in this province, Chungking, was the Chinese capital. Name this region of China best known today for its spicy cuisine.

The region described is Sichuan, a large province in southwestern China. This area is indeed one of China's most populous provinces, historically accounting for a significant portion of the global population. A key clue points to Chungking, known today as Chongqing, which served as the provisional capital of the Republic of China from 1937 to 1946 during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Although Chongqing is now a separate municipality, it was historically part of Sichuan province during its time as the wartime capital.

Sichuan is perhaps most widely recognized for its distinctive and flavorful cuisine. Sichuanese food is famous for its bold, spicy, and often numbing taste, a unique sensation known as "mala" derived from the generous use of chili peppers and the indigenous Sichuan peppercorn. Dishes like Kung Pao chicken and Mapo tofu are globally celebrated examples of this culinary tradition, with Chengdu, the provincial capital, even being designated a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

Beyond its fiery dishes, Sichuan is a region rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is often referred to as the "Heavenly Country" due to its fertile lands and abundant resources. The province is also a vital sanctuary for the endangered giant panda, with numerous reserves dedicated to their protection. The name "Sichuan" itself means "Four Rivers," reflecting the many waterways that crisscross this diverse and fascinating part of China.