Have you ever craved that perfect crunch and flavor in your meals? Well, let me tell you, making your own Homemade Chili Crunch is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding! This Chilli Crunch Recipe is a game-changer for your weeknight dinner ideas, especially when you’re looking for quick family dinners or even some delightful easy pasta recipes. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your dishes to a whole new level. So, let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile—use it in various dishes, from pasta to stir-fries.
- Packed with flavor from garlic, peanuts, and spices.
- Great for meal prep; it lasts for weeks in the fridge.
- Perfect for adding a spicy kick to your favorite creamy garlic pasta.
Ingredients
To whip up this delightful Chili Crunch, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups avocado oil or vegetable oil
- 6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
- 2 shallots (finely diced)
- 3 star anise
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- ½ cup red chili flakes
- ½ cup chopped peanuts
- 2 tbsp soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp paprika or gochujaru powder
- 1 tbsp white sesame seeds
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 Chili Crisp Sauce:
- In a pot, bring the avocado oil to a gentle simmer. Add in the sliced garlic and diced shallots, cooking for about 3 minutes.
- Next, toss in the star anise and cinnamon sticks, allowing everything to cook for an additional 4 minutes until the garlic turns a lovely golden color.
- Stir in the red chili flakes and chopped peanuts, cooking for 2 more minutes before removing from heat.
- Mix in the soy sauce, honey, paprika, and sesame seeds, giving it a good stir.
- Finally, remove the star anise and cinnamon sticks, and let your chili crisp cool to room temperature before transferring it to a jar for storage in the fridge.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Homemade Chili Crunch turns out perfectly:
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red chili flakes you use.
- For a nut-free version, you can skip the peanuts or substitute with sunflower seeds.
- Make sure to keep an eye on the garlic while it cooks; you want it golden, not burnt!
- Experiment with different oils, like sesame oil, for a unique flavor twist.
- This Chili Garlic Crunch can be used in various Recipes Using Chili Crisp, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
How to Serve
Your Chili Crunch is incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Drizzle it over your favorite easy pasta recipes for an instant flavor boost.
- Use it as a topping for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
- Add a spoonful to your soups or stews for a spicy kick.
- Mix it into dips or spreads for a unique twist.
- Pair it with rice or quinoa for a quick and satisfying meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Homemade Chili Oil is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
- Once cooled, transfer your chili crunch to an airtight jar and store it in the fridge.
- It will keep well for up to 2 weeks, but I bet it won’t last that long!
- For longer storage, consider freezing it in ice cube trays and then transferring the cubes to a freezer bag.
So there you have it! Making your own Chili Crunch is not only simple but also a fantastic way to enhance your meals. Whether you’re whipping up a quick family dinner or planning a cozy night in with some 30-minute meals, this chili oil will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Chili Crunch (aka Crispy Chili Oil)
Ingredients
Method
- Simmer the oil, then cook garlic and shallots for 3 minutes until golden.
- Add star anise and cinnamon, cook for 4 minutes.
- Stir in chili flakes and peanuts, cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and add soy, honey, paprika, and sesame seeds.
- Remove star anise and cinnamon, cool, then transfer to jar and store.