🌶 3-Ingredient Garlic Chili Oil
A fragrant, spicy oil perfect for drizzling over noodles, dumplings, stir-fries, or as a dipping sauce base.
📝 Ingredients
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10 cloves garlic, finely chopped
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¼ cup red chili flakes
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1 cup neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or grapeseed)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Aromatics
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Peel and finely mince the garlic.
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Place the garlic and chili flakes into a heat-proof jar or small metal bowl. Make sure the container is completely dry to avoid oil splatters.
2️⃣ Heat the Oil
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Pour the oil into a small saucepan.
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Heat over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until hot but not smoking.
Tip: Drop a single chili flake into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. If it smokes, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3️⃣ Infuse the Flavors
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Carefully pour the hot oil over the garlic and chili flakes.
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The mixture will bubble and sizzle — this releases the flavors from the garlic and chili.
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Stir gently with a dry spoon to distribute the garlic evenly.
4️⃣ Cool and Store
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Let the oil cool completely to room temperature.
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The oil will deepen to a vibrant red color as it cools.
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Seal with a tight-fitting lid.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 weeks. Always use a clean, dry spoon to avoid contamination.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
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Drizzle over noodles, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables
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Add to soy-sauce-based dipping sauces for dumplings
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Spoon over grilled meats or roasted vegetables
🧂 Optional Customizations
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Add 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds after the oil cools
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Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor
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For more heat, include crushed fresh chilies along with chili flakes