If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavours, then crunchy chili garlic oil is about to become your new best friend! This condiment is a family favourite in many households (including ours!) because it’s so versatile. Whether you’re drizzling it over noodles, using it as a dipping sauce, or adding it to your favourite dishes for an extra kick, chili garlic oil is the perfect way to spice things up. Plus, it makes a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends and family
We’ll show you how to make your very own chili garlic oil at home. It’s easy, fun, and the results are absolutely mouthwatering. Let’s get started!
Why we love chili garlic oil
Chili garlic oil isn’t just spicy – it’s packed with layers of flavour. The crispy garlic, onion bits while the chili flakes bring the heat. A touch of sweetness from sugar and the umami kick from soy sauce make it a well-rounded condiment that can elevate any dish.
Here’s why we love making it at home:
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice level, sweetness, or crunchiness to suit your taste
- Fresh and Flavourful: Homemade chili garlic oil tastes fresher and more vibrant than store-bought
- Perfect for Gifting: A jar of homemade chili garlic oil makes a perfect gift for foodies
INGREDIENTS:
- 1-2 Cups Dried Chili Flakes
- 3-4 Cups Oil (your choice)
- 1 Cup Onion/Shallots
- 1 Cup Garlic
- 2 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tbsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
How to make chili garlic oil: step-by-step
Making chili garlic oil is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to create your own jar of spicy, crunchy goodness:
- Prepare the chili flakes: If you’re starting with whole dried peppers, grind them into chili flakes using a spice grinder or food processor. You can also dry fresh peppers by hanging them on a string at room temperature or using a dehydrator.
- Fry the garlic and onion: Thinly slice the garlic and onion or shallots. Heat your oil in a pan over low to medium heat. Fry the garlic and onion in small batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to burn them! Once crispy, remove them from the oil and set them aside.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a heatproof glass bowl, combine the chili flakes, sugar, paprika, and salt. This will be the base for your chili garlic oil.
- Pour the hot oil: Carefully pour the hot oil over the chili flake mixture. The heat will release the flavours and aromas of the spices. Stir gently to combine
- Stir in the soy sauce, fried garlic, and fried onion. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Cool and store: Let the chili garlic oil cool completely before transferring it to a clean, airtight jar. Store it in a cool, dry place, and it will stay fresh for weeks!
How to use chili garlic oil
Now that you’ve made your own chili garlic oil, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas for how to use it:
- Drizzle it over noodles, rice, or soups
- Use it as a dipping sauce for dumplings, spring rolls, or bread.
- Add it to stir-fries for a spicy kick.
- Top your pizza, eggs, or roasted veggies with a spoonful for extra crunch and heat.
- Mix it into marinades or salad dressings for a bold twist.
Tips for success
- Keep the heat low: When frying the garlic and onion, use low to medium heat to avoid burning them. Burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chili oil, use fewer chili flakes or choose a milder variety of dried peppers.
- Experiment with add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! You can add sesame seeds, star anise, or cashews to add a unique flavour.
Why homemade is the best
Making chili garlic oil at home is not only fun but also rewarding. You get to control the ingredients, ensuring your chili oil is fresh, flavourful, and free from preservatives. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends and family with your cooking skills!
Once you try it, you’ll want to put it on everything!
