Description
Homemade Chili Crisp is a flavorful and crunchy chili oil condiment made with fried shallots, garlic, and Szechuan chili flakes. This versatile spicy topping adds a perfect balance of heat, texture, and aromatic depth to any dish—from noodles to rice, dumplings, and more.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Oil and Aromatics
- 3 cups neutral oil (like vegetable or canola oil)
- 2 large shallots, thinly sliced
- 12 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1.5 cups Szechuan chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/2 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar
Final Flavor Enhancers
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Fry Aromatics: Add the neutral oil to a saucepan and heat over high heat. Once hot, add the sliced garlic and shallots. Cook them until they bubble and turn a pale golden brown, ensuring they become crispy without burning. Then, strain the shallots and garlic from the oil and set both aside separately.
- Prepare Chili Flakes and Seasoning: In a large heatproof bowl, combine the Szechuan chili flakes, salt, sugar, and sesame seeds. This mixture will form the base of the chili crisp, providing both heat and texture.
- Heat Oil to Proper Temperature: Return the strained oil to the saucepan and heat it until it reaches between 350°F and 375°F (175°C to 190°C). The hot oil will help release the flavors and aromas of the spices when poured over.
- Infuse Chili Mixture with Hot Oil: Carefully pour the hot oil over the chili flakes and spice mixture in the heatproof bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine and let the flavors meld together.
- Season and Finish: Add the soy sauce and sesame oil to the chili crisp mixture. Then toss in the crispy fried garlic and shallots you set aside earlier for that signature crunchy texture. Stir everything well to fully incorporate all elements.
- Enjoy: Transfer the chili crisp to a jar or bowl and use it as a spicy topping on noodles, rice, vegetables, or any dish that could use a crunchy, flavorful kick.
Notes
- Chili Crisp offers a delicious alternative to simple chili oil by adding texture and crunch from the fried garlic and shallots.
- Ensure to monitor the frying garlic and shallots carefully to avoid burning, which can lead to bitterness.
- Store chili crisp in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a month.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes to control heat level according to your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 teaspoon (approx. 5g)
- Calories: 40 kcal
- Sugar: 0.1 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 4.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0.4 g
- Fiber: 0.04 g
- Protein: 0.1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
