Chili Oil
The ultimate condiment for spice lovers! This homemade Chili Oil is easy to make and adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Perfect for drizzling over pizza, pasta, or stir-fries, it’s a must-have in your kitchen. Make it tonight!
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Skillet
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 0.25 cup Dried Red Pepper Flakes
- 3 cloves Cloves optional
- 0.5 cup Oil
Instructions
- Place the dried red pepper flakes and cloves in a small bowl. Heat the oil in a wok or skillet over high heat until it reaches the smoking point. Different oils have different temperatures of smoking point. The oil is ready when you see a swirl of white smoke coming out from it and bubbles around a pair of wooden chopsticks. Pour the oil into the red pepper flakes and cloves. Stir the Chili Oil immediately with a pair of wooden chopsticks to help the red pepper flakes release their heat, aroma, and flavor. Let it cool for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavor to develop. Drain the Chili Oil with a fine strainer. Discard the strained pepper flakes. The oil is now ready for use.
Notes
- This recipe makes: about 1/3 cup (80 ml).
- Customization: You can customize the flavor to your liking. Add 3 cloves, 1 star anise, or 1 cinnamon stick for a deeper, spiced aroma.
- Sichuan Peppercorns: If you enjoy that classic numbing kick, toss in 1 teaspoon of Sichuan peppercorns for that ma (tingly) sensation.
- Straining Tips: You’ll have some black bits in your homemade Chili Oil. Use a very fine strainer to strain it. You can also use a coffee filter or muslin cloth. Strain it twice for the best results.
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for garnishing.
- Storage: Store your oil in a clean, airtight glass jar at room temperature.