Chilli Garlic Oil recipe
Prep Time
10min
Cook Time
15min
Total Time
25min

A flavorful and aromatic oil infused with spices and garlic, perfect for drizzling over dishes or using as a marinade base.

Ingredients

1 Servings
(1 serving = 200 mL)

Aromatics

  • 1
    cinnamon stick
  • 1
    bay leaf
  • 1
    star anise
  • 2
    medium-sized onions (chopped)
  • 6clove
    garlic (peeled and smashed)
  • fresh ginger slices
  • 1tsp
    paprika (or cayenne for more heat)
  • 2tbsp
    crushed chilli flakes
  • 4clove
    garlic (thinly sliced or finely chopped)
  • 1cup
    vegetable oil (neutral oil like canola or sunflower)
  • 1 1/2tsp
    salt

How to make Chilli Garlic Oil

Prepare the Spice Mix

  1. Combine chilli flakes, paprika, sliced garlic, and salt in a heatproof bowl. Set aside.

Infuse the Oil

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over low heat. Add the cinnamon stick, bay leaf, star anise, ginger slices, onions, and smashed garlic cloves.

  2. Cook gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the aromatics are golden brown and fragrant. You should see small bubbles forming as the flavors infuse.

    Step 2.1: Cook gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the aromatics are golden brown and fragrant

Combine

  1. Strain the hot oil directly into the bowl with the spice mix. Stir immediately to prevent the spices from burning. Let the mixture cool completely.

    Step 3.1: Strain the hot oil directly into the bowl with the spice mix

Store

  1. Once cool, transfer the chilli oil into a sterilized, airtight jar. Keep refrigerated and use within a month.

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a richer color and flavor, lightly toast the chilli flakes in a dry pan before adding them to the spice mix.

  2. Always cook the oil on low heat to avoid burning the aromatics, which can make the oil bitter.

  3. If you like an extra garlic kick, add some fresh, finely minced raw garlic to the oil after straining.

  4. This oil is versatile and can be used as a drizzle for dumplings, noodles, pizza, or even as a marinade base!