Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

Spice up your dishes with this Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil! Perfect for enhancing flavors in a range of meals, this homemade chili oil is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. With the perfect balance of heat and aroma from fresh garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices, it’s an excellent addition to your kitchen pantry. Whether you’re drizzling it over noodles, using it as a dipping sauce, or incorporating it into stir-fries, this chili oil will elevate any dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can whip up this flavorful condiment in just 30 minutes.
• Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance; you control the heat!
• Versatile Use – Perfect for Asian-inspired dishes, salads, marinades, or as a finishing touch for soups and stews.
• Long Shelf Life – Store your homemade chili oil in the fridge for up to 6 months, ensuring you always have some on hand.
• All-Natural Ingredients – Unlike store-bought versions that may contain preservatives, this recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil, gather the essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Ideal for grinding dried red chilies into fine flakes quickly and efficiently.
• Digital instant read thermometer: Ensures the oil reaches the perfect temperature for infusing flavors without burning the spices.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing aromatics from hot oil safely while keeping the flavorful oil intact.

Ingredients

To create your own Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chili Oil Base

• 2 cups whole dried Sichuan red chilies (or 1.5 cups / 360 g Sichuan or Korean red chili flakes)
• 3 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable oil (or neutral tasting oil)

Aromatics

• 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 Your Chilies

1. Add dried red chilis into a food processor and grind on HIGH speed until they become small flakes.
2. Transfer the chili flakes into a large heat-proof bowl (made of steel, ceramic or heat-resistant glass). Avoid inhaling the spice. To this bowl, add minced garlic, Sichuan pepper powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or wok on low-medium heat until around 250°F. You can use a digital instant read thermometer for accuracy or insert a wooden utensil into the hot oil; look for bubbles forming around it.

Step 3: Infuse with Aromatics

1. Carefully lower in the ginger, onion, star anise, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cloves into the hot oil.
2. Simmer these aromatics on low heat for at least 20-25 minutes to extract their flavors fully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combine Oil with Chili Flakes

1. Remove the aromatics from the hot oil using a slotted spoon and discard them.
2. Very carefully pour the hot oil into the bowl with the red chili flakes. Let it bubble!
3. Stir the mixture gently to ensure all flakes are coated in oil without burning them.

Step 5: Cool Down & Store

1. Allow the chili oil to cool down before transferring it to a sterilized glass air-tight jar.
2. Store sealed jar in the fridge for up to 6 months; label with an expiration date and always use clean utensils when scooping from it.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil! Use it liberally to add flavor and excitement to your favorite dishes!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil enhances any dish with its spicy and aromatic flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of this delightful condiment.

As a Dipping Sauce

• Pair with dumplings or spring rolls for a spicy kick.
• Drizzle over fresh vegetables for added flavor.

In Stir-Fries

• Toss into your favorite vegetable stir-fry for an extra layer of heat.
• Use in chicken or beef stir-fries to elevate the taste.

On Noodles

• Add a spoonful to noodle dishes for a fiery touch.
• Mix with soy sauce as a zesty dressing for cold noodle salads.

In Marinades

• Incorporate into marinades for meats or tofu to infuse them with spicy flavor.
• Combine with garlic and ginger for a robust marinade.

On Rice Dishes

• Drizzle over fried rice or rice bowls for added depth.
• Mix into congee for a comforting and spicy breakfast option.

As a Salad Dressing

• Use as a dressing for Asian-style salads, combining with lime juice and sesame oil.
• Drizzle on grain salads for an exciting twist.

How to Perfect Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

To create the best version of Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil, follow these helpful tips that guarantee great results every time.

• Choose quality chilies: Opt for high-quality dried Sichuan red chilies or chili flakes, as they enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Control the oil temperature: Ensure the oil is heated properly (around 250°F) to avoid burning the spices, which can lead to bitterness.
• Experiment with aromatics: Feel free to adjust the spices like ginger and garlic according to your preference for a unique taste.
• Store correctly: Keep your chili oil in an air-tight jar in the fridge to maintain its freshness and flavor over time.
• Label your jar: Write down the date when you made it so you can track its freshness easily.

Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options that complement its bold flavors.

1. Steamed Dumplings: Soft, pillowy dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. Serve them hot alongside chili oil for dipping.
2. Fried Rice: A savory mix of rice, vegetables, and protein. Add chili oil on top for an added zing.
3. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with veggies or meat that provide a crunchy contrast when dipped in chili oil.
4. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables sautéed until tender. Spice them up by drizzling some chili oil just before serving.
5. Noodle Soup: A warm bowl of noodle soup benefits from a splash of chili oil, adding depth and warmth to each bite.
6. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy skewers seasoned perfectly; serve with chili oil on the side for an extra kick.
7. Crispy Tofu Bites: Golden-brown tofu cubes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside pair beautifully with spicy chili oil drizzled on top.
8. Savory Pancakes: Thin pancakes filled with scallions or other ingredients; serve them hot alongside chili oil for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making your own Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using the wrong type of chilies: Always opt for whole dried Sichuan red chilies or high-quality chili flakes for the best flavor. This ensures your oil has the right heat level and aroma.
• Not heating the oil properly: If the oil is too hot, it can burn the spices. Use a thermometer or check for small bubbles around a wooden spoon inserted in the oil to achieve the perfect temperature.
• Overcooking aromatics: Allowing the ginger, onion, and spices to simmer too long can lead to bitterness. Aim for 20-25 minutes of careful simmering to enhance flavors without burning.
• Skipping sterilization of jars: Not using a sterilized jar can lead to spoilage. Make sure your storage container is clean and dry before pouring in your chili oil.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: Improper storage can affect the lifespan of your chili oil. Store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for optimal freshness and flavor retention.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil in a sterilized glass jar with a tight lid.
• It can last up to 6 months when kept refrigerated.
• Always use clean utensils when scooping from the jar to avoid contamination.

Freezing Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

• For longer storage, you can freeze chili oil in ice cube trays.
• Transfer frozen cubes into a sealed freezer bag once solid for easy portioning.
• Use within 6 months for best quality.

Reheating Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

• Oven: Preheat your oven to low temperature and place the jar (with lid removed) on a baking sheet until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer chili oil into a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals (10-15 seconds) until warm but not boiling.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil used for?
Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil is perfect as a condiment for dumplings, noodles, or as an ingredient in marinades and dressings.

How spicy is this chili oil?
The spiciness largely depends on the type of chilies used. Adjust the quantity of chilies or use mild versions if you prefer less heat.

Can I customize my chili oil?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other spices such as sesame seeds or more garlic based on your taste preferences.

How long does homemade chili oil last?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can last up to 6 months.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes! This recipe contains no animal-derived ingredients and is entirely plant-based.

Final Thoughts

This Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can enhance dishes with its spice or customize it with additional ingredients like herbs or seeds. Give this recipe a try, and elevate your meals with this homemade delight!

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: Lara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 servings (based on one tablespoon serving size) 1x

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Description

Elevate your culinary creations with this Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil! This homemade condiment is a must-have for anyone who loves a burst of flavor in their dishes. Infused with the aromatic essence of garlic, ginger, and an array of spices, this chili oil offers customizable heat levels to suit your palate. Whether drizzled over noodles, used as a dipping sauce for appetizers, or stirred into stir-fries, it adds an irresistible kick to any meal. Simple to prepare and made with all-natural ingredients, this chili oil is perfect for enhancing your favorite recipes while ensuring you always have a delicious condiment on hand.

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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 1/2 cups vegetable oil
• 1/4 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 dried red chilies in a food processor until they become small flakes. Transfer to a heat-proof bowl, adding minced garlic, Sichuan pepper powder, and salt.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot on low-medium until it reaches about 250°F.
3. Carefully add ginger, onion, star anise, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cloves into the hot oil. Simmer for 20-25 minutes to infuse flavors.
4. Remove the aromatics with a slotted spoon and pour the hot oil into the bowl with chili flakes. Stir gently to coat without burning.
5. Allow the mixture to cool before transferring it to a sterilized glass jar for storage.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (15g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 165mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg