Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove stems from dried chilies and shake out most seeds; set aside.
- Thinly slice garlic cloves and ginger for even infusion.
- Combine dried chilies, fresh chilies, chili flakes, Sichuan peppercorns, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds in a heat-proof bowl or keep nearby if adding directly to the pan.
- Pour the neutral oil into a small saucepan and heat over medium until shimmering and 325–350°F (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add sliced garlic and ginger to the hot oil; cook 30–45 seconds, stirring, until fragrant but not browned.
- Carefully add the chili and spice mixture to the oil and immediately remove the pan from heat; stir for 30 seconds to prevent scorching.
- Let the oil cool and infuse at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Strain the cooled oil through a fine mesh strainer lined with paper towels into a clean, dry glass jar, pressing on solids to extract maximum flavor. Leave a few flakes for visual appeal if desired.
- Season with a pinch of salt, seal the jar, and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
Notes
For a subtle smoky twist, replace one dried chili with a chipotle pepper in adobo. Always keep the jar completely dry to prevent spoilage.
