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Garlic Chili Oil

A bold, spicy, and aromatic homemade chili oil infused with garlic, chili flakes, and warm spices perfect for drizzling, dipping, and cooking.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 24 tablespoons
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese-Inspired
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Oil
  • 1 cup neutral oil vegetable or sunflower oil
Flavor Base
  • 8-10 garlic cloves finely minced
  • 1/2 cup dried chili flakes
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
Optional Enhancers
  • 1 tsp soy sauce optional
  • 1 small cinnamon stick optional
  • 2 star anise pods optional
  • 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns optional

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Heat-safe glass jar
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Add minced garlic, chili flakes, sesame seeds, salt, and sugar into a heat-safe bowl.
  2. Heat oil in a saucepan with cinnamon and star anise until warm and aromatic (about 300°F / 150°C).
  3. Remove aromatics from oil and carefully pour hot oil over chili mixture.
  4. Stir gently to combine and release aroma.
  5. Add soy sauce and Sichuan peppercorns if using.
  6. Let cool completely and transfer to sterilized jar.
  7. Store in refrigerator and use as a condiment or cooking enhancer.

Notes

Flavor deepens after 24–48 hours. Always use clean utensils to extend shelf life.