Chili oil, the champion condiment for dipping various fried snacks and enhancing hot and savory dishes, is a culinary gem. In this article, we'll guide you through creating your own chili oil that surpasses the rest. Uncover the secrets to crafting the perfect chili oil that will elevate your kitchen game.
The Key Ingredients
To create this delightful chili oil, you'll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 65 grams of dried red chilies (soaked in hot water)
- 15 grams of dried shrimp (ebi), finely ground
- 25 grams of garlic, finely minced
- 25 grams of shallots, finely minced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2-star anise
- 7 cloves
- Granulated sugar, to taste
- 350 ml of cooking oil
- Salt, to taste
- Mushroom stock, to taste
Let's Get Cooking
Now that you've gathered your ingredients, let's dive into the cooking process:
Step 1: Coarsely Grind the Red Chilies
Begin by coarsely grinding the dried red chilies, along with a bit of oil, and set this fiery mixture aside for later use.
Step 2: Infuse the Cooking Oil
Heat your cooking oil and add the cinnamon stick, star anise, and cloves. Cook until they release their aromatic flavors, then remove them from the oil and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same oil, add the minced garlic and shallots. Sauté them until they become fragrant. Now, introduce the salt, granulated sugar, and a hint of mushroom stock for that umami richness.
Step 4: Combine with the Ground Chilies
Add the coarsely ground red chilies into the mix and stir until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Cook the Chili Oil to Perfection
Continue cooking the chili oil until it reaches the desired level of doneness and has a glossy appearance.
Your homemade chili oil is ready to take your dishes to the next level. This versatile condiment can be used for dipping or as an ingredient in various recipes, adding a delightful kick of spice and flavor. With this freshly made chili oil, your culinary creations are set to impress and tantalize taste buds. Enjoy!