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Sichuan Chili Oil

Very tasty and satisfying
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: Asian
Keyword: Hearty, Mild Spicy
Servings: 20
Cost: £15

Equipment

  • 1 Heat proof bowl
  • 1 Small saucepan

Ingredients

  • 240 ml neutral oil such as rapeseed, sunflower, or peanut oil
  • 30 g Sichuan peppercorns
  • 50 g dried chili flakes preferably Sichuan chili flakes; adjust for desired spice level
  • 5 g paprika optional, for color
  • 2-3 star anise
  • 2-3 bay leaves
  • 1 small cinnamon stick
  • 5 g fennel seeds
  • 2 cloves of garlic finely chopped
  • 1 small piece of fresh ginger about 10 g, sliced
  • 10 g sesame seeds optional, for garnish
  • 5 g salt

Instructions

Prepare the chili flakes:

  • Place the chili flakes, paprika (if using), and salt in a heatproof bowl. Set aside.

Heat the oil:

  • Pour the oil into a small saucepan and heat gently over medium heat.
  • Add the Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and fennel seeds. Let the spices infuse for about 5-7 minutes until the oil is aromatic. Take care not to burn the spices.

Add the aromatics:

  • Add the garlic and ginger slices to the oil. Stir gently and allow them to sizzle for 1-2 minutes.

Strain the oil:

  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the oil through a fine sieve to remove the solid spices, garlic, and ginger.

Pour the hot oil over the chili flakes:

  • Carefully pour the hot oil over the chili flakes. You should hear a sizzling sound as the oil cooks the chili flakes, releasing their flavor and aroma.

Add sesame seeds (optional):

  • Stir in the sesame seeds for added texture and a nutty flavor.

Cool and store:

  • Allow the chili oil to cool completely before transferring it to a clean, airtight jar.

Notes

Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month, or at room temperature for 2-3 weeks.
Usage:
Perfect as a dipping sauce, in stir-fries, over noodles, or as a garnish for dumplings.