Description
This Salt-Free Chili Garlic Oil is a flavorful, homemade condiment perfect for adding a spicy kick to any dish without any added salt. Made with neutral oil, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and optional ingredients like paprika and sesame seeds for depth and color, it’s an Asian-inspired versatile sauce that brightens up meals while being vegan, gluten-free, and salt-free.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup neutral oil such as canola or vegetable oil
- 10 to 12 garlic cloves, minced
Spices and Flavorings
- 1/3 cup crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon paprika for color (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance heat)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 small shallot, finely minced (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Cook Aromatics: Heat the oil in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and shallot if using. Cook gently, stirring often, until the garlic is lightly golden but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Remove from Heat and Add Spices: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, paprika, sesame seeds, and sugar if using. Mix thoroughly to combine flavors.
- Cool and Add Vinegar: Allow the mixture to cool for 5 minutes, then stir in the vinegar to add brightness and acidity to the oil.
- Infuse and Store: Let the mixture cool completely to let the flavors infuse. Transfer the chili garlic oil to a clean, airtight jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Usage: Stir well before each use to redistribute the spices and enjoy as a condiment that enhances any dish.
Notes
- For milder heat, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or use a milder variety of chili flakes.
- You can add a small amount of toasted sesame oil to add depth, but keep it minimal to avoid overpowering the chili flavor.
- Always keep refrigerated since this is a fresh, salt-free recipe to ensure safety and freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
