Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil is a flavorful and versatile condiment that can elevate any dish. This homemade chili oil brings together the heat of red chilies, the warmth of ginger, and aromatic spices. It’s perfect for adding a spicy kick to your meals or as a dipping sauce. Making this quick and easy Chinese chili oil at home is not only cost-effective but also ensures you’re using fresh, natural ingredients without any additives.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to whip up a delicious condiment in no time.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili flakes used to suit your taste preferences.
• Versatile Uses: Use it as a marinade, drizzle it over noodles, or incorporate it into stir-fries for an added flavor boost.
• All-Natural Ingredients: Made with real spices and herbs, this chili oil is healthier than many store-bought alternatives.
• Long Shelf Life: Store your homemade chili oil in the fridge for up to 6 months without losing its flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Makes grinding dried chilies quick and efficient, ensuring even consistency in your chili flakes.
• Digital instant read thermometer: Helps monitor the oil temperature accurately to avoid burning the spices during infusion.
• Slotted spoon: Allows for easy removal of aromatics from hot oil without spilling any liquid.

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)
• 1/4 tsp Sichuan pepper powder
• 3 tsp salt

Aromatics

• 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 the Chili Flakes

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. Be cautious not to inhale the spice.
3. To the same bowl, add minced garlic, Sichuan pepper powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Infuse the Oil

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or wok on low-medium heat until it reaches around 250 F. You can also test by inserting a wooden utensil into the hot oil; look for bubbles.
2. Carefully lower in the ginger, onion, star anise, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cloves into the hot oil.
3. Simmer on low heat for at least 20-25 minutes to enhance fragrance. Stir occasionally.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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 upon contact.
3. Stir the mixture gently to ensure that all flakes are coated in oil without burning.

Step 4: Cool and Store

1. Allow the chili oil to cool down completely before transferring it to a sterilized glass jar.
2. Seal tightly and store in the fridge for up to 6 months. Always use clean utensils when scooping from the jar to prevent contamination.

Enjoy this quick & easy Chinese chili oil with your favorite dishes!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil is versatile and can enhance many dishes. Use it as a condiment or an ingredient to elevate your meals.

As a Dipping Sauce

• Serve alongside dumplings for a spicy kick.
• Drizzle over spring rolls for added flavor.

In Soups and Noodles

• Add a spoonful to noodle soups for warmth and spice.
• Mix into ramen for a bold, flavorful twist.

On Grilled Meats

• Brush on grilled chicken or beef to infuse with heat.
• Use as a marinade base for turkey or lamb before grilling.

In Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Toss with stir-fried veggies for an extra layer of flavor.
• Mix into fried rice for a spicy finish.

How to Perfect Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

Perfecting your chili oil can make all the difference in taste and aroma. Here are some tips to enhance your homemade version.

• Choose the right chilies: Opt for fresh Sichuan red chilies for authentic flavor. If unavailable, Korean chili flakes work well too.
• Control the heat: Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your spice preference. Start with less if you’re unsure.
• Infuse longer: Allow the aromatics to simmer longer in the oil for deeper flavors. Aim for 25-30 minutes if time permits.
• Use quality oil: A good quality vegetable oil will enhance the overall taste of your chili oil. Neutral oils are best.
• Cool before storing: Let the oil cool completely before transferring it to avoid condensation in the jar, which can spoil it faster.

Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavor profile. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Steamed Dumplings – Soft dumplings filled with vegetables or meat provide a perfect canvas for dipping in chili oil.
2. Fried Rice – Fluffy rice stir-fried with veggies becomes even more exciting when drizzled with spicy chili oil.
3. Crispy Spring Rolls – The crunchiness of spring rolls contrasts beautifully with the heat of chili oil, making them an ideal pairing.
4. Grilled Eggplant – Tender grilled eggplant absorbs flavors well and benefits from a splash of chili oil.
5. Sautéed Bok Choy – Lightly sautéed bok choy topped with chili oil adds a burst of flavor and color to your plate.
6. Sesame Noodles – Cold sesame noodles tossed with chili oil create a refreshing yet spicy dish, perfect for warm days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making your own chili oil can be rewarding, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and quality.

• Skipping the Grinding Step: Not grinding the dried chilies can lead to a gritty texture. Make sure to grind them into small flakes for a smoother oil.
• Using High Heat: Heating the oil too quickly can burn the aromatics. Always use low to medium heat to infuse flavors gently.
• Ignoring Storage Guidelines: Not storing chili oil properly can lead to spoilage. Use a sterilized jar and keep it in the fridge for optimal freshness.
• Overcooking Aromatics: Allowing the ginger, onion, and spices to simmer too long can make them bitter. Keep an eye on them and remove them once fragrant.
• Not Labeling Your Jar: Failing to label your chili oil jar can cause confusion about when it was made. Always write the date on your jar for easy tracking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil in an airtight glass jar.
• It will last up to 6 months in the refrigerator if stored correctly.

Freezing Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

• While not commonly frozen, you can freeze small portions in ice cube trays for quick use.
• Transfer cubes to a freezer-safe bag after freezing and label with the date.

Reheating Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the oil in an oven-safe dish for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm, ensuring not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a small saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to making Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil:

What is Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil?

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

How long does Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can last up to 6 months.

Can I customize this Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spice level by changing the type or amount of chilies used or add additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavors.

What dishes pair well with Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil?

This chili oil is versatile! It pairs well with dumplings, noodles, stir-fries, and even as a drizzle over roasted vegetables.

Is Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes! This recipe uses all plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for vegetarian diets.

Final Thoughts

Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil elevates any meal with its spicy kick and aromatic depth. This versatile condiment allows for numerous customization options—feel free to experiment with different spices or oils based on your preference! Try making your own batch today!

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: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings (1 tablespoon each) 1x

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Description

Quick & Easy Chinese Chili Oil is a homemade condiment that brings a delightful kick to your meals. This vibrant oil combines the heat of red chilies with aromatic spices, creating a versatile addition to any dish. Perfect for drizzling over noodles, using as a dipping sauce, or enhancing stir-fries, this chili oil is easy to prepare and can be adjusted for spice levels to suit your taste. With all-natural ingredients and no additives, you can enjoy the fresh flavors while enhancing your cooking repertoire. Best of all, it has a long shelf life and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months. Elevate your culinary creations with this simple yet flavorful condiment.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups whole dried red chilies (or 1.5 cups 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, or 1 shallot halved)
• 4 star anise
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 5 cloves

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Instructions

1. Grind the dried chilies in a food processor until they turn into small flakes. Transfer them to a large heat-proof bowl and mix in minced garlic, Sichuan pepper powder, and salt.
2. In a large pot or wok, heat vegetable oil over low-medium heat until it reaches about 250°F. Add ginger, onion, star anise, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cloves; simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
3. Remove aromatics using a slotted spoon and pour the hot oil into the bowl with chili flakes; stir gently to coat without burning.
4. Allow the mixture to cool before transferring it to a sterilized glass jar; seal tightly and store in the refrigerator.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (15g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 118mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg