Easiest 5-Min Chilli Oil
Chilli oil isn’t just about adding heat - it’s a game-changer for boosting flavour in any dish.
This recipe is the simplest version with basic and minimal ingredients that everyone is likely to have, and takes only 5 mins.
If you'd prefer a more aromatic version, check out my Easy Sichuan Chilli Oil recipe.
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About this recipe
What is Chilli Oil?
Chilli oil is a fragrant, spicy condiment made by infusing oil with dried chillies, Sichuan peppercorns, and aromatics like garlic and ginger.
It’s a staple in Chinese cuisine, known for adding both heat and depth to a variety of dishes.
Unlike regular hot sauce, chilli oil carries a more complex flavour profile, thanks to its blend of spices and slow infusion process.
Why Make Homemade Chilli Oil?
- Better Flavour: Freshly made chilli oil tastes far superior to store-bought versions. You can control the spice level, aroma, and texture to suit your preference.
- More Economical: A single homemade batch lasts for months and costs a fraction of store-bought options.
- Customisable: Adjust the heat, swap out aromatics, or add extra ingredients like star anise or cinnamon for a personalised touch.
What Can I Use This Chilli Oil For?
Any chilli oil is a versatile condiment that can be used on a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Noodles and dumplings: Drizzle some over your favourite noodle dish or dumplings for a spicy kick.
- Soups and stews: Add a spoonful to soups or stews for an extra depth of flavour.
- Salads: Use a small amount to add a spicy touch to your salad dressing.
- Eggs: Drizzle some over fried eggs or scrambled eggs for a delicious flavour boost.
- Stir-fries: Add a spoonful to your stir-fry for a spicy and flavourful sauce.
Ingredients
Makes a ~500ml jar
- 350ml (~1.5cup) neutral cooking oil
- 1-2 heads of garlic, peeled and crushed
- 50g your favourite chilli flakes. I use either gochugaru or one from the Chinese supermarket
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 3-4 slices of fresh ginger
- 1 cassia cinnamon stick. (This is different to cinnamon used in baking)
- 2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp msg, or some chicken bouillon (optional, but would recommend)
Pair it with
Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Place the chilli flakes, sesame seeds, salt, sugar and MSG in a large heatproof bowl or pot.
2. Infuse Oil with Aromatics
Heat oil in a pot over medium heat and add the crushed garlic, sliced ginger, and cinnamon stick.
Fry until golden - this will take a few minutes. Once they start to colour, they can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on them!
3. Pour the Hot Oil Over the Chilli Flakes
Place a stainer over the bowl with the prepped chilli flakes and seasoning.
Carefully pour the hot oil over the chilli blend - it will sizzle and release deep, aromatic flavours. Stir well.
4. Store & Enjoy!
For the best flavour, let the chilli oil sit for 24 hours before using. Adjust taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Store it in a sealed jar in a cool, dark place - it will keep for up to 3 months.
Stir before each use and enjoy it on dumplings, noodles, stir-fries, and more!
FAQs
How much chilli oil should I use each time?
A little goes a long way. Start with a small amount and adjust to your spice tolerance.
This condiment adds a fiery kick to countless dishes – noodles, dumplings, soups, and more! So get creative and explore the endless possibilities.
How spicy is this chilli oil?
The spice level depends on the type of chillies you use. This recipe uses a combination of dried chillies, some with more heat than others.
You can adjust the spice level by using fewer or milder chilli flakes, or by removing the seeds from the dried chillies before using them.
How long does this chilli oil last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, your crispy chilli oil should last for several months. The flavours will actually continue to develop and deepen over time.
My chilli oil turned out burnt, what went wrong?
Be patient when frying the shallots and garlic. They will eventually brown, but they can burn quickly once they start to colour. Keep a close eye on them and adjust the heat if necessary.
Video demonstration
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