How to Make Chili Oil: Easy Steps for Spicy Flavor Boost

Have you ever tasted a dish that just needed a little something extra to elevate it to the next level? Well, let me tell you, homemade chili oil is that magical ingredient! It’s not just for spicy food lovers; it’s a versatile condiment that can transform your quick family dinners, easy pasta recipes, and even your favorite weeknight dinner ideas. Today, I’m excited to share with you how to make chili oil at home with just a few simple ingredients. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought!

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 creamy garlic pasta to grilled meats.
• Great for gifting to friends and family who love to cook.
• Long shelf life when stored properly.

Ingredients

To make this delightful homemade chili oil, you’ll need:

• 50 g dried chili pepper (to make half a cup of chili flakes)
• 1.5 cups oil (less or more to your liking)
• 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1 pinch salt

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 our homemade chili oil! Follow these easy steps:

1. Making chili flakes: Start by adding the dried chili peppers and one tablespoon of oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Toast them on both sides until they are slightly browned and aromatic. Once cooled, crush the dried peppers in a blender to make the chili flakes. Place them in a heatproof bowl and mix in a pinch of salt.
2. Heating the oil: In the same saucepan, add 1.5 cups of oil and the sesame seeds. Cook over low to medium heat until the sesame seeds turn slightly golden. Be careful not to burn them!
3. Mixing all together: Pour the hot oil and sesame seeds into the bowl with the chili flakes. Stir well to evenly distribute the heat of the oil. Once it has cooled down, transfer it to a glass container for later use.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your homemade chili oil turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to adjust the amount of dried chili peppers based on your heat preference. If you like it spicy, add more!
• Experiment with different oils, such as olive oil or avocado oil, for unique flavors.
• For an extra kick, consider adding garlic or ginger to the oil while heating it.
• Make sure to let the oil cool completely before storing it to avoid condensation in the container.

How to Serve

Now that you’ve made your delicious homemade chili oil, how can you use it? Here are some serving suggestions:

• Drizzle it over your favorite easy pasta recipes for a spicy twist.
• Add it to marinades for grilled meats or vegetables.
• Use it as a dipping oil for bread or dumplings.
• Mix it into soups or stews for an extra layer of flavor.
• Incorporate it into your homemade chili oil recipes for a unique touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

This homemade chili oil is perfect for making ahead of time! Here are some storage tips:

• Store your chili oil in a clean, airtight glass container to keep it fresh.
• It can be kept at room temperature for up to a month, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
• Always use a clean spoon to scoop out the oil to prevent contamination.

So there you have it! Making your own chili oil is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. It’s a fantastic way to add a spicy flavor boost to your meals, whether you’re whipping up a quick family dinner or planning a cozy night in with creamy garlic pasta. I hope you enjoy this chili oil recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!