Spicy chili oil is a versatile condiment that adds a punch of heat and flavor to any dish. Whether you want to spice up your stir-fries, noodles, or even pizza, homemade chili oil is the way to go. Not only does it taste better than store-bought options, but you also have full control over the level of spiciness and the ingredients you use. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of making your own homemade spicy chili oil.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
The first step in making homemade spicy chili oil is to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here's what you will need:
Step 2: Prepare the Chili Peppers
Start by preparing the dried chili peppers. Remove the stems and seeds from the peppers, as they can add unwanted bitterness. If you prefer a milder oil, you can also remove the inner white membranes, which contain most of the heat.
Step 3: Infuse the Oil
Next, it's time to infuse the oil with the chili peppers and other flavors. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over low heat. Add the chopped chili peppers, garlic cloves, and Sichuan peppercorns (if using). Stir everything together to ensure even distribution.
Step 4: Strain and Store
Once the chili oil has cooled, it's time to strain out the solid ingredients. Place a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth over a clean container. Pour the oil through the sieve, allowing the solids to be caught and separated from the oil.