Garlic Chili Oil

Crunchy Garlic Chili Oil is a must-have condiment that elevates any dish. With its perfect blend of heat and flavor, this Garlic Chili Oil can enhance salads, pizzas, pasta, and much more. It’s easy to make and ideal for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just spicing up your weekday meals. The unique combination of garlic and chili creates a standout quality that brings any meal to life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can create this delicious oil in under an hour.
• Flavorful Kick: The combination of garlic and red pepper flakes adds a delightful heat to your dishes.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for drizzling on salads, mixing into pasta, or enhancing your favorite recipes.
• Long-Lasting: Store it for weeks, ensuring you always have some on hand for your culinary creations.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level according to your taste by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make preparing Garlic Chili Oil straightforward. Here are the essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium skillet
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Small bowl
• Clean jar with tight-fitting lid

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium skillet: Ideal for heating the oil evenly and cooking the garlic and shallots to perfection.
• Fine-mesh strainer: Ensures that only the oil passes through while retaining crispy garlic and shallots.
• Clean jar with tight-fitting lid: Keeps your Garlic Chili Oil fresh for weeks when stored properly.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Garlic Chili Oil, gather the following ingredients:

For the Oil Base

• 1 cup canola oil
• 1 medium shallot, finely diced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 4 teaspoons garlic, minced

For Seasoning

• 3 tablespoons dried minced onion
• 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes, or more for a spicier oil
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika

How to Make Garlic Chili Oil

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a medium skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add shallots and garlic. Stir to combine. Once the mixture is bubbling (after 1-2 minutes), reduce heat to medium-low.

Step 2: Cook Until Crispy

Cook the shallots and garlic on low for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to burn them as they cook.

Step 3: Prepare Seasoning Mixture

In a small bowl, combine minced onion, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, chili powder, and paprika. Mix well to create your seasoning mixture.

Step 4: Strain the Oil Mixture

Place a fine-mesh strainer over the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Carefully pour the hot garlic mixture into the strainer so that the oil drains in with the seasonings. Set aside the crispy shallots and garlic in the strainer to cool.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once cooled (after about 20-30 minutes), add the crispy garlic and shallots back into the oil mixture. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Step 6: Store Your Garlic Chili Oil

Transfer your flavorful Garlic Chili Oil into a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store it at room temperature in a cool, dark place for up to a few weeks. Always stir well before serving!

How to Serve Garlic Chili Oil

Garlic Chili Oil is a versatile condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking to add heat to your meals or enhance flavors, here are some serving suggestions to get you started.

Drizzle Over Pizza

• A generous drizzle of Garlic Chili Oil adds a spicy kick to your favorite pizza, enhancing the cheese and toppings.

Toss with Pasta

• Mix Garlic Chili Oil with freshly cooked pasta for a quick and flavorful dish. Add some herbs or grated cheese for extra taste.

Enhance Salads

• Use Garlic Chili Oil as a dressing for salads. It pairs well with greens, adding both flavor and a touch of heat.

Flavor Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Stir-fry your choice of vegetables and finish them off with a splash of Garlic Chili Oil for added depth and spice.

Dip for Bread

• Serve Garlic Chili Oil in a small bowl as a dipping sauce for bread. It’s perfect for crusty baguettes or focaccia.

Marinade for Proteins

• Use Garlic Chili Oil as a marinade for chicken, beef, or turkey before grilling or roasting to infuse rich flavors.

How to Perfect Garlic Chili Oil

Creating the perfect Garlic Chili Oil requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Control the Heat: Monitor the cooking temperature carefully. Cooking at too high heat can burn the garlic and shallots, leading to bitter flavors.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spiciness by adding more red pepper flakes based on your preference. Taste as you go!
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and shallots instead of pre-minced varieties. Fresh ingredients yield better flavor.
• Store Properly: Keep the oil in a cool, dark place in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor longer.
• Experiment with Additions: Feel free to add other spices like cumin or herbs like basil for unique twists on your chili oil.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chili Oil

Garlic Chili Oil pairs well with many side dishes, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: Classic garlic bread becomes even tastier when served with a drizzle of Garlic Chili Oil.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Toss roasted potatoes in Garlic Chili Oil before baking for added flavor and crispness.
3. Grilled Corn: Brush corn on the cob with Garlic Chili Oil before grilling for an irresistible smoky taste.
4. Steamed Rice: Enhance plain steamed rice by drizzling it with Garlic Chili Oil right before serving.
5. Sautéed Greens: Sauté spinach or kale in Olive oil and finish with Garlic Chili Oil for a nutritious side.
6. Vegetable Skewers: Marinate veggies in Garlic Chili Oil before grilling them on skewers for vibrant flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Chili Oil can be simple, but avoid these common mistakes to achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Using Low-Quality Oil: The oil is the base of your Garlic Chili Oil. Opt for a high-quality canola oil for better flavor and heat retention.
• Overcooking Garlic: Garlic can burn easily, leading to a bitter taste. Cook it on low heat and keep an eye on it while it browns.
• Skipping the Straining Step: Not straining the oil properly can result in a gritty texture. Always use a fine-mesh strainer to remove solids for a smooth finish.
• Not Adjusting Spice Levels: Everyone’s heat tolerance varies. Start with less red pepper flakes, and add more if you prefer a spicier oil.
• Improper Storage: Storing Garlic Chili Oil incorrectly can affect its shelf life. Keep it in a cool, dark place in a sealed container to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Garlic Chili Oil in an airtight jar.
• It can last up to 1 month in the fridge.

Freezing Garlic Chili Oil

• Pour the oil into ice cube trays for easy portioning.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Chili Oil

• Oven: Preheat the oven to low heat. Place the jar in warm water or directly into the oven for gentle warming.
• Microwave: Heat for short bursts of 10-15 seconds until just warm. Avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Garlic Chili Oil.

How long does Garlic Chili Oil last?

Garlic Chili Oil can last up to one month when stored in the refrigerator. If frozen, it can last for up to three months.

Can I use other oils instead of canola?

Yes, you may substitute with oils like sunflower or grapeseed oil, but be mindful that flavor may vary slightly.

Is Garlic Chili Oil spicy?

The spiciness depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. Adjust according to your preference before cooking.

How do I use Garlic Chili Oil?

Garlic Chili Oil is versatile! Use it as a dressing for salads, drizzle over pizzas, or toss with pasta dishes for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Chili Oil recipe is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. It adds a delightful kick to various dishes while allowing you room for customization based on your spice preferences. Give it a try and elevate your meals!

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

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Garlic Chili Oil

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Garlic Chili Oil is a vibrant, homemade condiment that transforms any dish with its delightful combination of heat and flavor. This easy-to-make oil is perfect for drizzling over salads, mixing into pasta, or enhancing your favorite recipes. With a blend of crispy garlic and shallots infused in oil, this versatile sauce not only adds a spicy kick but also enhances the overall taste of your meals. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to spice up your weekday meals, Garlic Chili Oil is an essential addition to your culinary repertoire. Customize the spice level to suit your preference, and enjoy the rich flavors that come together in just a few simple steps.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup canola oil
• 1 medium shallot, finely diced
• 4 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons dried minced onion
• 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika

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Instructions

1. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, warm the canola oil. Add the diced shallots and minced garlic; stir to combine.
2. Once bubbling (about 1-2 minutes), reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
3. In a small bowl, mix dried minced onion, red pepper flakes, salt, chili powder, and paprika.
4. Place a fine-mesh strainer over the bowl with the seasoning mixture and pour in the hot oil mixture to strain out solids.
5. Allow the strained oil to cool for about 20-30 minutes before stirring back in the crispy garlic and shallots.
6. Transfer to a clean jar with a tight lid and store at room temperature for up to several weeks.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Infusing
• Cuisine: Various

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg