15 Chinese Chili Oil Paste Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 23, 2024
Chinese chili oil paste, also known as "la jiao jiang" in Mandarin, is a staple condiment in Chinese cuisine. This fiery and flavorful paste is made from a combination of dried chilies, Sichuan peppercorns, and fragrant spices, and is often used as a dipping sauce or a flavoring agent in various dishes. In this article, we will provide a professional and well-organized introduction to making your own homemade Chinese chili oil paste. Get ready to add a delicious and versatile condiment to your kitchen repertoire!
If you're a fan of spicy food, then you'll love this Chinese chili oil recipe. Made with a combination of dried chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, and other fragrant spices, this chili oil adds a fiery kick to any dish. Use it as a marinade for chicken or pork, mix it into your stir fry, or drizzle it over your favorite noodles for an extra punch of flavor. Plus, with this homemade version, you can customize the heat level to your liking.
Forget takeout, this Chinese orange chicken recipe is easy to make at home and tastes even better than the restaurant version. Tender chunks of chicken are coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, with a hint of spice from red chili flakes. Serve over steamed rice for a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
A classic Chinese dish that never goes out of style, beef and broccoli is a must-try recipe. Thinly sliced beef is stir-fried with broccoli and a savory sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings. This dish comes together in just minutes and is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
No Chinese meal is complete without a side of fried rice. This recipe uses day-old rice, which helps to achieve that perfectly crispy texture. Add in your favorite vegetables and protein, like peas, carrots, and shrimp, for a well-rounded and flavorful dish. Don't forget to top it off with a drizzle of soy sauce and a sprinkle of green onions.
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Chinese Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
For a budget-friendly and delicious meal, try these Chinese chicken thighs. Marinated in a flavorful mixture of soy sauce, honey, and spices, these chicken thighs are then baked to perfection. The result is tender and juicy chicken with a sticky and slightly sweet glaze that pairs perfectly with a side of rice or vegetables. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.
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Chinese Pork Dumplings + Chili Oil
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Large Egg, Low Sodium Soy Sauce, Sesame
Dumplings are a staple in Chinese cuisine, and this recipe takes them to the next level with the addition of homemade chili oil. The pork filling is a combination of ground pork, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings, all wrapped in a thin wonton wrapper. Serve with the homemade chili oil for a spicy kick that will keep you coming back for more.
Another classic Chinese dish, chicken and broccoli is a simple and flavorful stir fry that is a crowd-pleaser. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce come together for a dish that is both healthy and satisfying. Serve over rice for a complete meal, or add in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added variety.
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How to Make Fresh Chinese Chili Oil
Main Ingredients: Sichuan Peppercorn, Chili Flakes, Chinese Five Spice
If you've never made your own chili oil, now is the time to try. This recipe uses a combination of fresh chili peppers, garlic, and ginger, along with sesame oil and vegetable oil. The result is a fragrant and spicy oil that is perfect for adding to your favorite Chinese dishes or any other meal that could use a little heat. Use it sparingly, as a little goes a long way!
This classic Chinese soup is made with just a few ingredients, yet packs a ton of flavor. The base is a simple chicken broth, with added soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a savory and aromatic broth. The star of the show is the egg, which is beaten and drizzled into the soup in thin streams, creating delicate ribbons that make this soup not only delicious but also visually appealing.
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Chinese Pork Dumplings + Chili Oil Dipping Sauce
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Large Egg, Low Sodium Soy Sauce, Sesame
These homemade dumplings are taken to the next level with a flavorful and spicy dipping sauce. The sauce is made with the same ingredients as the chili oil, with the addition of soy sauce and vinegar for a tangy and savory kick. Dip your dumplings in this sauce for a burst of flavor that will have you reaching for more.
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Classic Pork Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout favorite
Main Ingredients: Hot Water, Honey, Sesame Oil, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce
Takeout-style pork fried rice is a favorite for many, and this recipe will show you how to make it at home. The key is to use cold, cooked rice, which helps to achieve that signature crispy texture. Add in diced pork, scrambled eggs, and a mix of vegetables for a hearty and satisfying dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish.
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Egg Fried Rice - An Easy Chinese
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Large Eggs, Paprika, Turmeric, Oil, Medium
Another takeout favorite, egg fried rice is a simple and delicious dish that comes together in minutes. You can use any protein or vegetables you have on hand, along with cold, cooked rice and scrambled eggs. Add in a splash of soy sauce and some green onions for added flavor, and you have a quick and tasty meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.
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Fried Chicken Wings, Chinese Takeout Style
Main Ingredients: Chicken Wings, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Garlic
These crispy and flavorful chicken wings are a must-try for any wing lover. The wings are marinated in a combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings before being fried to perfection. Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, and you have a delicious appetizer or main course that is sure to please.
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Chinese Broccoli Beef
Main Ingredients: Sirloin Steak, Soy Sauce, Cornstarch, Freshly Ground
This stir fry dish is a classic Chinese combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli. The key to achieving that signature velvety texture of the beef is to marinate it in cornstarch and soy sauce before cooking. Toss in some garlic, ginger, and oyster sauce, and you have a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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Chinese Sweet Potato Paste
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, White Sugar, Sesame Oil
A traditional Chinese dessert, sweet potato paste is a comforting and delicious treat. Made with mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, and milk, this paste is then steamed to create a soft and creamy texture. It can be served warm or cold and is a popular dish during the winter months in China.
These crispy and savory egg rolls are a must-try for any Chinese food lover. The filling is a combination of ground pork, cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables, all wrapped in a thin egg roll wrapper. Fry them up until golden brown, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty appetizer or snack.
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Classic Beef Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout
Main Ingredients: Flank Steak, Salt, Water, Baking Soda, Dark Soy Sauce
Similar to pork fried rice, this version uses beef for a heartier and more flavorful dish. The key to achieving the perfect texture is to use day-old rice and cook it on high heat. Add in your favorite vegetables and seasonings, and you have a meal that is not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftovers.
Also known as char siu, this Chinese BBQ pork is a popular dish that is often served as a main course or used as a filling for buns and other dishes. The pork is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and honey, and then roasted until caramelized and tender. Serve over rice or noodles for a delicious and flavorful meal.
This versatile and easy-to-make dish is a great way to use up any leftover vegetables or protein you have on hand. Simply stir fry your chosen ingredients with a savory sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings. Serve over rice for a complete and satisfying meal that can be customized to your liking.
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How To Make Chinese Black Bean Sauce (aka Black Bean...
Main Ingredients: Fermented Black Beans, Oil, Minced Garlic, Minced
This homemade version of Chinese black bean sauce is a great way to add a burst of flavor to your dishes. Made with fermented black beans, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings, this sauce is a staple in many Chinese dishes, like black bean chicken and black bean beef. Use it as a marinade, dipping sauce, or stir fry sauce for a delicious and authentic Chinese-inspired meal.
The Ingredients You'll Need
To make Chinese chili oil paste, you will need a variety of ingredients that can be easily found in most Asian grocery stores or online. These include:
Dried Chilies
The star ingredient of this recipe, dried chilies bring the heat and smokiness to the chili oil paste. You can use any type of dried chili, such as Sichuan facing heaven chilies or Korean gochugaru chilies, depending on your preference and availability.
Sichuan Peppercorns
Sichuan peppercorns are not actually peppers, but rather the dried berries of the prickly ash tree. These tiny reddish-brown beads add a unique numbing sensation and citrusy flavor to the chili oil paste.
Fragrant Spices
To elevate the flavor of the chili oil paste, we will also need some fragrant spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and bay leaves. These spices add depth and complexity to the paste.
Oil
A neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, is used to infuse the flavors of the dried chilies and spices. You can also use sesame oil for a nutty and aromatic touch.
Optional Ingredients
Some chili oil paste recipes also call for additional ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and sesame seeds. These are not essential, but they can add extra layers of flavor to the paste.
The Process of Making Chinese Chili Oil Paste
Now that we have all the necessary ingredients, let's dive into the process of making Chinese chili oil paste.
Step 1: Preparing the Dried Chilies
Start by removing the stems and seeds from the dried chilies. Then, cut them into small pieces using kitchen scissors or a knife.
Step 2: Toasting the Spices
In a pan, toast the Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, cinnamon, and bay leaves over medium heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
Step 3: Infusing the Oil
Next, heat the oil in a pan until it reaches around 350-375°F. Turn off the heat and add in the dried chilies, toasted spices, and any optional ingredients you are using. Let the mixture cool for 5-10 minutes.
Step 4: Blending the Paste
Once the oil has cooled slightly, use an immersion blender or food processor to blend the mixture into a smooth paste. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can also use a mortar and pestle.
Step 5: Storing the Chili Oil Paste
Transfer the chili oil paste into a clean and airtight jar. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 months.
Ways to Use Chinese Chili Oil Paste
Chinese chili oil paste is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:
As a Dipping Sauce
Mix the chili oil paste with soy sauce and vinegar to make a delicious dipping sauce for dumplings, noodles, or hot pot.
In Stir-Fries
Add a spoonful of chili oil paste to your stir-fry dishes for an extra kick of heat and flavor.
In Marinades and Dressings
Use the chili oil paste as a base for marinades and dressings, adding a spicy and aromatic touch to your dishes.
In Fried Rice
Drizzle some chili oil paste over fried rice for a burst of flavor and color.
In conclusion, Chinese chili oil paste is a must-have in any Asian kitchen. With this simple and easy-to-follow recipe, you can make your own homemade version and elevate your dishes with its bold and fiery flavors. Give it a try and impress your friends and family with your new culinary skills!
