How to Make Homemade Chinese Chili Oil for Perfect Flavor

Have you ever tasted a dish that just made your taste buds dance? That’s exactly what homemade Chinese chili oil does! It’s a magical condiment that can elevate your meals from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re whipping up quick family dinners or looking for a way to spice up your easy pasta recipes, this Homemade Chili Oil is the secret ingredient you’ve been missing. Let’s dive into this delightful journey of flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknight dinner ideas.
• Enhances the flavor of any dish, from stir-fries to creamy garlic pasta.
• Customizable heat level to suit your taste.
• Great for meal prep; it lasts for weeks!
• Perfect for adding a kick to your favorite easy pasta recipes.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Chinese Chili Oil, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 40 grams Sichuan Chili Flakes
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp brown sugar (white sugar is fine too!)
• 1-2 tbsp black rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sweet paprika powder (for color)
• 2-3 tsp white sesame seeds (toasted if possible)
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 200 ml rapeseed oil (or Chinese Caiziyou oil)
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 pieces star anise
• 3 tsp Sichuan pepper
• 2 pieces black cardamom
• 2 pieces bay leaf
• 1 piece cinnamon
• 2 nuggets fresh ginger

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

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Hot Chili Oil Recipe:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the rapeseed oil, garlic, ginger, star anise, Sichuan pepper, black cardamom, bay leaves, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat until the oil is hot but not smoking.
2. Once the oil is hot, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
3. In a heatproof bowl, combine the Sichuan chili flakes, salt, brown sugar, sweet paprika powder, and sesame seeds.
4. Carefully pour the hot oil mixture over the chili flakes. You should hear a satisfying sizzle!
5. Add the black rice vinegar and sesame oil, stirring to combine.
6. Let the chili oil cool completely before transferring it to a clean jar.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Chili Oil Recipe turns out perfectly:

• Adjust the amount of Sichuan chili flakes based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure!
• For a deeper flavor, let the oil sit for at least 24 hours before using it.
• Store your chili oil in a cool, dark place to maintain its vibrant flavor.
• Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cumin or coriander for a unique twist.

How to Serve

This homemade Chinese Chili Oil is incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious ways to use it:

• Drizzle it over your favorite creamy garlic pasta for an exciting flavor boost.
• Add it to stir-fries or noodle dishes for an extra kick.
• Use it as a dipping sauce for dumplings or spring rolls.
• Mix it into marinades for grilled meats or vegetables.
• Incorporate it into salad dressings for a spicy twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Chili Oil is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Once cooled, transfer the chili oil to a clean, airtight jar.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
• For best flavor, use it within the first month.
• Always use a clean spoon to scoop out the oil to prevent contamination.

Now that you know how to make this delightful Sichuan Chili Oil, you can elevate your meals and impress your family and friends. Whether you’re preparing quick family dinners or planning a special meal, this chili oil will add that perfect touch of flavor. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to check out our other recipes like Chili Oil and Chili Garlic Sauce for more spicy delights!