Craving a spicy touch for your meals? Learning how to make chilli oil at home is simpler than you think, and the results are sure to impress. Whether you call it chilli oil, chili oil recipe, or Chinese chilli oil, this condiment is a must-have in any kitchen. This guide gives you a foolproof recipe, tips for the best flavour, and a nod to Boombay’s own Five Chilli Oil for those days you want a ready-made, flavour-packed option.
Key Ingredients for Chilli Oil
To make chilli oil that’s bold and aromatic, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what goes into the perfect batch:
- Neutral oil: 1 cup (240 ml) sunflower, vegetable
- Dried chilli flakes: ½ cup (about 50g) – a mix of Sichuan and Korean chilli flakes works great, but any good-quality red chilli flakes will do
- Aromatics: 2 star anise, 1 cinnamon stick, 2 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns (or timur), 3 cardamom pods, 4 cloves, 4 garlic cloves (sliced), 1-inch ginger (sliced), 2 shallots (thinly sliced)
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Optional extras: 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari), a pinch of sugar
For a quick and delicious alternative, you can always reach for Boombay’s Five Chilli Oil, which is ready to use and packed with smoky, rich flavour.
Step-by-Step Chilli Oil Preparation
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Makes: About 1 cup (serves 8–12, depending on use)
1. Infuse the Oil with Aromatics
- Heat 1 cup of oil in a saucepan over low to medium heat. Add the star anise, cinnamon, bay leaves, Sichuan peppercorns (or timur), cardamom, cloves, garlic, ginger, and shallots.
- Let the oil warm gently until it bubbles lightly. Stir occasionally and let it infuse for 20–30 minutes. The kitchen will fill with an amazing aroma boom!.
2.Prepare the Chilli Mixture
- While the oil is infusing, take a heatproof bowl, to make a dry mixture. Mix ½ cup chilli flakes, ½ teaspoon salt, and any optional extras (like sesame seeds or a pinch of sugar).
- If you like, add a splash of soy sauce or tamari for extra depth.
3. Strain and Pour the Hot Oil
- Once the oil is fragrant, strain out the aromatics and discard them.
- Reheat the oil slightly if needed—don’t let it smoke, as this can make it bitter.
- Carefully pour the hot oil over the chilli mixture. Listen for the sizzle as the flavours come to life.
4. Cool and Store
- Let the oil cool to room temperature. Stir well, then transfer to a clean, airtight jar.
- If you want to try something already packed with flavour, Boombay’s Five Chilli Oil is a great choice—just open and enjoy.
Tips for Achieving the Best Flavour
- Keep the heat low: Don’t rush the infusion. Low and slow brings out the best in the spices.
- Mix your chillies: Using a blend of chilli flakes adds complexity and layers of heat.
- Add texture: Toasted sesame seeds or crispy garlic bits give your chilli oil a nice crunch.
- Let it rest: The flavours develop even more if you let the oil sit for a day before using.
- Customise: Experiment with your favourite spices or try different oils. The best chilli oil is the one you love.
How to Store Homemade Chilli Oil
Store your chilli oil in an airtight jar. Keep it in the refrigerator after opening for the longest shelf life. If the oil gets cloudy or solidifies in the fridge, just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using. Always keep it away from direct sunlight and heat.
Shelf Life and Preservation
Homemade chilli oil can last up to three to six months when stored properly in the fridge. If kept at room temperature, use it within a month. Always check for signs of spoilage like a change in colour, smell, or mould. If it smells off or looks odd, it’s best to toss it.
Refrigeration is especially important if your chilli oil contains fresh ingredients like garlic or ginger, as these can shorten its shelf life.
Health Benefits and Uses of Chilli Oil
Chilli oil is a versatile condiment that adds a spicy kick to almost any dish. It’s perfect for drizzling over noodles, dumplings, stir-fries, pizza, or salads.
If you love the idea of chilli oil but want something ready-made, Boombay’s Five Chilli Oil is a fantastic choice for quick, flavourful meals.
Is Chilli Oil Vegetarian?
Yes, chilli oil is almost always vegetarian and often vegan. It’s made from oil, chillies, and spices, with no animal products involved. Homemade chilli oil as well as Boombay’s Five Chilli Oil and Timur Chilli Crisp are a safe bet for vegetarians and vegans.
Conclusion
Making your own chilli oil at home is easy, rewarding, and lets you tailor the flavour to your taste. Whether you’re drizzling it over noodles, stirring it into stir-fries, or adding a spicy touch to your favourite snacks, a good chilli oil can make any meal more exciting. With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have a condiment that’s ready to boom up your cooking.
For those days when you want the flavour without the fuss, Boombay’s Five Chilli Oil is always ready to add a rich, smoky kick to your dishes. Just remember: refrigerate after opening, shake well before use, and let the oil sit at room temperature if it gets cloudy in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What can I use chilli oil for?
- Drizzle over noodles, dumplings, pizza, or salads
- Mix into stir-fries, marinades, or dipping sauces
- Add a spicy kick to eggs, avocado toast, or roasted nuts
Q. How long does homemade chilli oil last?
- Refrigerated: Up to 3–6 months
- Room temperature: Up to 1 month (if free from fresh ingredients)
Q. Is chilli oil healthy?
If you use Boombay's chilli oil it is made with a cold pressed sesame oil which is good for heart health. As healthy as Boombay's chilli oil is, the key is always moderation. If you overshoot your calorie intake even when eating healthy food, you will gain weight and hence become unhealthy.
Q. Why does chilli oil taste so good?
Chilli oil combines heat, aroma, and a mix of spices, creating a complex, layered flavour that enhances almost any dish.
Q. Is chilli oil vegetarian?
Yes, chilli oil is typically vegetarian and often vegan, made from plant-based ingredients like oil, chillies, and spices. Boombay’s Five Chilli Oil is also vegan.
