How to Make Chili Oil at Home for Spicy Dishes

Have you ever tasted a dish that just needed a little extra kick? Well, I have the perfect solution for you! Making your own chili oil at home is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. This Chili Oil Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves to add a bit of heat to their meals. Whether you’re whipping up quick family dinners or experimenting with easy pasta recipes, this chili oil will elevate your dishes to a whole new level!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable heat level to suit your taste.
• Enhances the flavor of a variety of dishes, from stir fries to creamy garlic pasta.
• Great for meal prep and can be stored for weeks.
• Perfect for adding a spicy twist to your favorite 30-minute meals.

Ingredients

To make this delightful chili oil, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup dried chili flakes
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons ginger, sliced
• 1 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making the chili oil!

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the star anise and cinnamon stick and let them infuse the oil for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add the sliced garlic and ginger. Sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn.
3. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the sesame oil and soy sauce.
4. Place the chili flakes in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot oil mixture over the flakes and let it sizzle.
5. Stir in the sugar and allow the chili oil to cool to room temperature.
6. Strain out solids if desired, or leave them in for added texture.
7. Transfer the chili oil to a clean jar or bottle for storage.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your chili oil turns out perfectly:

• Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your heat preference. If you love it spicy, go for more!
• For a unique flavor, try adding other spices like cumin or coriander.
• Let the oil sit for a few days before using it to deepen the flavors.
• Use a high-quality vegetable oil for the best results; peanut oil is a great option too!

How to Serve

This chili oil is incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious ways to use it:

• Drizzle it over garlic fries for a spicy twist.
• Add it to your favorite stir fries for an extra kick.
• Mix it into easy pasta recipes like creamy garlic pasta for a delightful flavor boost.
• Use it as a dipping sauce for dumplings or spring rolls.
• Incorporate it into marinades for meats or tofu.

Make Ahead and Storage

This chili oil is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Store the chili oil in a clean, airtight jar or bottle.
• Keep it in a cool, dark place, and it should last for several weeks.
• For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temperature before using.

Now that you know how to make this delicious chili oil, I hope you’re excited to try it out! It’s a fantastic addition to your kitchen, especially for those busy weeknight dinner ideas. Whether you’re making a simple stir fry or a more elaborate dish, this chili oil will add that perfect touch of heat and flavor. Don’t forget to check out my other recipes like Garlic Chili Oil and Mom’s Homemade Chili Oil for more spicy inspiration. Happy cooking!