Chili oil is a delightful ingredient that can amplify the flavor of countless dishes. Whether you’re drizzling it over pizza, tossing it into noodles, or using it as a dip, the right chili oil can elevate your meal. In this recipe, I will walk you through making your own homemade chili oil that is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
To create a batch of homemade chili oil, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- ¼ cup dried red chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- ½ tablespoon salt
- Optional: Additional spices like Sichuan peppercorns or bay leaves for extra flavor
Preparation Steps
Let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious chili oil:
Instructions
- Start by heating the vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the oil. Sauté them until fragrant and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn them!
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly for a minute. Then, stir in the dried red chili flakes and salt, mixing well. If you’re adding optional spices, now is the time to include them.
- Once the mixture has cooled, pour in the sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor. Stir to combine.
- Let the chili oil cool completely before transferring it to a glass jar or airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month!
Your homemade chili oil is now ready to use! Drizzle it over your favorite dishes or use it as a dipping sauce. The vibrant color and rich flavor will surely impress anyone who tastes it. Enjoy experimenting with different spice levels to find your perfect blend!
source: thewoksoflife.com
