homemade chili crisp

Chili crisp has become a kitchen staple for those who love a bit of heat and crave that perfect crunch. It’s more than just a condiment—it’s a secret ingredient that can elevate anything from noodles to eggs, grilled meats, or even a simple bowl of rice. While there are plenty of store-bought options, there’s something special about making your own Homemade Spicy Chili Crisp at home. You can customize the heat level, experiment with different aromatics, and adjust the crispiness to your liking.

The allure of chili crisp lies in its blend of crunchy bits and a fiery, oil-based sauce that coats your taste buds with every spoonful. This Homemade Spicy Chili Crisp recipe brings together dried chilies, crispy garlic, and shallots, all steeped in an infused oil. The result is a condiment that’s spicy, smoky, and just a little sweet—perfect for adding a kick to your favorite dishes.

Homemade Spicy Chili Crisp

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Homemade Spicy Chili Crisp is a crunchy, spicy condiment that brings heat, umami, and texture to any dish, perfect for those who love bold flavors.

• Author: Amanda MacArthur
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 24 servings 1x
• Category: Soups

Ingredients

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• 1 1/2 cups neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable oil)
• 1/2 cup dried red chili flakes (a mix of Sichuan and mild chili flakes works well)
• 3/4 cup shallots, thinly sliced
• 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns
• 1/4 cup peanuts, roughly chopped (optional for extra crunch)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/4 cup fried onions (store-bought or homemade)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Oil and Aromatics: In a small saucepan, heat the neutral oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced shallots and garlic, stirring constantly to ensure even cooking. Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 10-15 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the oil in the pan.
2. Infuse the Oil: Reduce the heat to low and add the Sichuan peppercorns to the hot oil. Let them sizzle for about 2 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat.
3. Combine the Flavors: In a heatproof bowl, add the chili flakes, sugar, and salt. Carefully pour the hot oil over the mixture. It should bubble up as the spices bloom, releasing their aromatic oils into the mix.
4. Add Crunchy Bits: Once the oil mixture cools slightly, stir in the fried shallots, garlic, chopped peanuts (if using), fried onions, and soy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
5. Store: Transfer the chili crisp into a sterilized glass jar. It can be kept at room temperature for a couple of weeks or refrigerated for longer shelf life.

If you prefer a milder heat, swap out some of the spicy chili flakes for sweeter varieties. For those who love a numbing sensation, add more Sichuan peppercorns. The peanuts and fried onions add an extra layer of texture, but feel free to play around with sesame seeds or fried soybeans for a different crunch.

Chili crisp is incredibly versatile, making it the ideal accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Stir it into a bowl of hot noodles or toss it with roasted vegetables for a quick, spicy kick. It pairs perfectly with fried or scrambled eggs, adding a crunchy contrast to the creamy yolk. You can even drizzle it over avocado toast or blend it into mayonnaise for a spicy sandwich spread.

For a quick snack, mix a spoonful into your favorite popcorn or sprinkle it over roasted nuts. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try using it as a marinade base for chicken wings. The possibilities are endless, and with your own homemade batch, you’ll always have a jar of heat and crunch ready to elevate your meals.

While store-bought chili crisp can be convenient, making your own allows for endless customization. With this Homemade Spicy Chili Crisp, you control the freshness of the ingredients and avoid any unnecessary preservatives. Plus, it’s a fun weekend project that yields a reward you’ll enjoy for weeks to come. If you want to take it to the next level, read How to Grow a Spicy Chili Crisp Recipe Garden.

Whether you’re a heat enthusiast or just looking to add a new dimension to your cooking, Homemade Spicy Chili Crisp is the way to go. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy to tweak and adjust, allowing you to make it truly yours. So, grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy this flavorful, spicy, and crunchy delight.

With this chili crisp in your pantry, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again—it’s like a jar of pure, fiery magic. Happy cooking! Let me know what you think!