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Garlic Chili Oil

A crunchy, spicy, and flavor-packed homemade chili oil loaded with crispy garlic, chili flakes, sesame seeds, and aromatic spices.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese-Inspired
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Garlic Chili Oil Base
  • 1.5 cups neutral oil vegetable, canola, or peanut oil
  • 12 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 0.5 cup red chili flakes
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce optional

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Heat-safe mixing bowl
  • Glass jar with lid
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. In a heat-safe bowl, combine chili flakes, crushed red pepper, sesame seeds, chopped green onions, sugar, salt, and soy sauce if using.
  2. In a saucepan, add neutral oil, sliced garlic, star anise, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves.
  3. Heat over medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes until garlic becomes lightly golden and fragrant.
  4. Remove from heat and discard star anise, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves using a slotted spoon.
  5. Let the oil cool for 1–2 minutes while keeping the crispy garlic in the oil.
  6. Carefully pour the hot oil and garlic over the chili mixture. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Allow to cool completely before transferring to a clean glass jar.
  8. Store refrigerated and use as desired over noodles, dumplings, rice, and more.

Notes

Use medium-low heat to avoid burning the garlic. Refrigeration is recommended for best freshness and safety.