Whether you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine, enjoy a spicy kick in your meals, or simply want to expand your culinary skills, learning how to make your own chilli oil at home can be a rewarding and flavorful adventure. Homemade chilli oil boasts a rich taste that’s incomparable to its store-bought counterparts.
Making chilli oil may seem intimidating at first, but it’s simpler than you think. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you create your own homemade chilli oil.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oil (canola, vegetable, or peanut oil work best)
- 1/2 cup red chilli flakes
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic (optional)
- 1 piece of ginger, about 1-inch long (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorn (optional)
Method
First, gather all your ingredients and have them within reach.
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In a saucepan, heat your oil on low to medium heat. If you’re using garlic and ginger, finely chop them and add to the oil.
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Let the garlic and ginger gently sizzle in the oil for about 3 minutes until they become golden and crispy. This helps infuse the oil with aromatic flavors. (If you’re not using garlic and ginger, just heat the oil until it’s hot but not smoking).
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Turn off the heat. Add the Sichuan peppercorns if using, and let them steep in the hot oil for about 2 to 3 minutes.
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Now it’s time for the main act - the chilli flakes. Add them into the oil and stir well. If the oil is at the right temperature, it should start to turn a beautiful red colour.
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Allow the chilli oil to cool down completely before storing safely in an airtight glass jar.
Remember, this chilli oil has a high concentration of capsaicin (the compound responsible for the ‘heat’ in chillies) which can cause skin irritation. So be careful when handling it, particularly around your eyes and open wounds.
There you have it; a simple and easy guide to making your own chilli oil. From dumplings to noodle dishes, this versatile oil will add depth to your dishes that’s bound to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!