Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

Spice lovers, rejoice! This Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil is your go-to condiment for adding heat and flavor to any dish. Perfect for drizzling over noodles, enhancing soups, or as a dipping sauce, this homemade chili oil brings a bold kick to the table. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can easily elevate your meals with this all-natural, aromatic delight that outshines store-bought options.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With just a few steps, you can create your own flavorful chili oil in under 30 minutes.
• All-Natural Ingredients: Enjoy peace of mind knowing every ingredient is fresh and wholesome.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as a condiment for various dishes like dumplings, stir-fries, and marinades.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your personal spice preferences.
• Long Shelf Life: Store in the fridge for up to six months—great for meal prep!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment simplifies the process and ensures a successful outcome.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large heat-proof bowl
• Slotted spoon
• Large pot or wok
• Digital instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for grinding dried chilies into fine flakes, ensuring maximum flavor infusion.
• Large heat-proof bowl: Prevents accidents when pouring hot oil and allows safe mixing of ingredients.
• Slotted spoon: Useful for removing aromatics from hot oil without losing any precious liquid.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups whole dried Sichuan red chilies (or 1.5 cups / 360 g Sichuan or Korean red chili flakes & skip Step 1)
• 3 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable oil (or neutral tasting oil)
• 1/4 tsp Sichuan pepper powder
• 3 tsp salt
• 4 slices ginger
• 1 small onion (quartered, or 1 shallot halved)
• 4 star anise
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 5 cloves

How to Make Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

Step 1: Prepare Chili Flakes

Add dried red chilis into a food processor and grind on HIGH speed until they become small flakes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Transfer the chili flakes into a large heat-proof bowl (made of steel, ceramic or heat-resistant glass) and avoid inhaling the spice. To the same bowl, add minced garlic, Sichuan pepper powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or wok on low-medium heat, around 250°F with a digital instant-read thermometer. Alternatively, insert a wooden utensil into the hot oil and look for bubbles.

Step 4: Infuse Aromatics

Carefully lower in the ginger, onion, star anise, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cloves into the hot oil. Simmer on for at least 20-25 minutes for best fragrance. Stir occasionally.

Step 5: Remove Aromatics

Remove the aromatics from the hot oil with a slotted spoon and discard them.

Step 6: Mix with Chili Flakes

Very carefully pour the hot oil into the bowl with the red chili flakes and let it bubble. Then stir the flakes with the oil to prevent them from overcooking or burning.

Step 7: Cool and Store

Let the chili oil cool down before transferring it to a sterilized glass air-tight jar. Store in the fridge for up to six months; label with an expiration date. Always use clean utensils when scooping chili oil from the jar to prevent contamination.

Enjoy spicing up your meals with this easy homemade condiment!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil is a versatile condiment that can elevate your meals with its bold flavors. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious oil to enhance your dining experience.

As a Dipping Sauce

• Use this chili oil as a dip for dumplings or spring rolls for an extra kick of flavor.
• Drizzle over crispy tofu for a delightful treat that balances spice and texture.

In Stir-Fries

• Add a spoonful of chili oil to your stir-fried vegetables or meats to infuse them with heat and aroma.
• Combine with soy sauce and sesame oil for a zesty stir-fry sauce.

On Noodles

• Toss your favorite noodles in this chili oil for a spicy twist that pairs well with garlic and soy sauce.
• Use it as a dressing for cold noodle salads, adding both flavor and vibrancy.

In Soups

• Stir in a spoonful of chili oil into soups like wonton soup or ramen to boost the broth’s flavor profile.
• Use as a topping for hot and sour soup to intensify the taste.

With Rice Dishes

• Drizzle over steamed rice or fried rice to add an exciting layer of flavor.
• Mix with rice vinegar for a tangy side that complements any Asian-inspired meal.

On Pizza

• Elevate your pizza game by drizzling warm chili oil over slices for an unexpected spicy finish.
• Combine with fresh herbs for an aromatic, flavorful pizza experience.

How to Perfect Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

To ensure the best results when making Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and spices will impart stronger flavors than older ones.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of dried chilies according to your spice tolerance; start small if unsure.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at the right temperature (around 250°F) to prevent burning the spices.
• Store Properly: Make sure you use sterilized jars to maintain freshness and avoid spoilage.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other aromatics like lemongrass or lime zest for unique variations.
• Label Your Jar: Write the date on your jar so you can keep track of how long it’s been stored.

Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

Pairing side dishes with Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Dumplings: Soft and juicy dumplings that absorb the spicy flavors of the chili oil perfectly.
2. Fried Rice: A savory dish that benefits from a drizzle of chili oil, enhancing every bite with spice.
3. Garlic Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy tossed in garlic and finished with chili oil adds color and heat.
4. Crispy Tofu Bites: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these bites are elevated by dipping in chili oil.
5. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crunchy spring rolls paired with spicy chili oil create a delightful contrast in textures.
6. Noodle Salad: Chilled noodle salad dressed in soy sauce and chili oil makes for a refreshing side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring oil temperature: Using oil that’s too hot can burn the spices. Always monitor the temperature to ensure it’s around 250 F for optimal flavor.
• Skipping ingredient prep: Not properly prepping garlic and ginger can lead to uneven flavors. Always mince and slice these ingredients finely for even infusion.
• Using non-heat-proof bowls: Pouring hot oil into regular bowls can cause breakage. Use heat-proof materials such as stainless steel, ceramic, or heat-resistant glass.
• Neglecting storage tips: Improper storage can shorten the shelf life. Store your chili oil in a sterilized glass jar in the fridge to keep it fresh for up to 6 months.
• Overcooking aromatics: Letting aromatics simmer too long can impart bitter flavors. Aim for 20-25 minutes max, stirring occasionally.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in a sterilized glass jar with a tight seal.
• Keep refrigerated to extend freshness up to 6 months.

Freezing Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

• Freeze in small portions using ice cube trays for easy access.
• Transfer frozen cubes into a freezer-safe bag or container, labeled with the date.

Reheating Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

• Oven: Preheat your oven to low heat and place the jar (without the lid) inside for gentle warming.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a small saucepan over low heat until just heated through, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil?

Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil is a spicy condiment made from infused oil with red chili flakes, garlic, and aromatic spices. It’s perfect for adding flavor and heat to dishes.

How long does homemade chili oil last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil can last up to 6 months. Always check for signs of spoilage before use.

Can I customize my chili oil?

Absolutely! You can adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of red chili flakes or adding other spices like sesame seeds or scallions.

What do I use Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil with?

This chili oil is versatile and pairs well with dumplings, noodles, stir-fries, and even as a finishing touch on soups and salads.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes! The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for anyone new to making sauces at home.

Final Thoughts

This Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil not only elevates your dishes but also allows you to tailor it according to your spice preferences. Whether you enjoy it drizzled over dumplings or mixed into stir-fries, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients or spice levels!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Spice lovers, get ready to elevate your culinary creations with this Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil! This homemade condiment is a game-changer, perfect for drizzling over noodles, enhancing soups, or serving as a zesty dipping sauce. With a blend of aromatic spices and dried chilies, you can customize the heat level to suit your tastes. In under 30 minutes and using all-natural ingredients, this flavorful oil will outshine any store-bought option. Enjoy the bold kick and rich flavor that will transform your everyday dishes into something extraordinary!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups whole dried Sichuan red chilies (or 1.5 cups Sichuan or Korean red chili flakes)
• 3 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 2 ½ cups vegetable oil
• ¼ tsp Sichuan pepper powder
• 3 tsp salt
• 4 slices ginger
• 1 small onion (quartered)
• 4 star anise
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 5 cloves

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Instructions

1. Grind the dried red chilies in a food processor until they become small flakes.
2. Transfer chili flakes to a large heat-proof bowl and mix in minced garlic, Sichuan pepper powder, and salt.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a pot to around 250°F.
4. Add ginger, onion, star anise, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cloves to the oil; simmer for 20-25 minutes.
5. Remove aromatics using a slotted spoon and discard them.
6. Carefully pour hot oil into the bowl with chili flakes and stir to combine.
7. Let cool before transferring to a sterilized jar for storage in the fridge.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Infusing
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (15g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: <1g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: <1g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg