5-Minute Homemade Chili Oil
A fiery, aromatic chili oil that comes together in just 5 minutes. Pouring hot oil over crushed red pepper flakes and sesame seeds releases an incredible nutty, smoky aroma. Drizzle it over noodles, dumplings, or rice for an instant flavor boost, and keep a jar in your fridge for whenever you need a touch of heat.
For 8 servings
- prep · ~1 min
Combine chili flakes, sesame seeds, and salt in a heatproof jar.
Place the red chili flakes, sesame seeds, and salt into a clean, dry 8-ounce heatproof glass jar. Stir gently to mix everything together.
- other · ~3 min
Heat the oil until shimmering, about 3 minutes.
Pour the vegetable oil into a small saucepan. Heat over medium-high until the oil is shimmering and just beginning to smoke at the edges. If you see visible wisps of smoke, remove from heat immediately.
TIPThe oil should be around 350°F. Too cool and the chili won't bloom; too hot and it will burn. - mix · ~1 min
Carefully pour the hot oil over the chili mixture.
Slowly drizzle the hot oil into the jar over the chili flake mixture. It will bubble and sizzle immediately. Leave it to cool completely. Once cooled, seal the jar and store in the refrigerator.
TIPPour in two stages: first a splash to wet the flakes, then the rest. This prevents splattering.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like avocado or refined peanut oil for clean flavor.
- 2Let the oil cool to about 350°F (just shimmering, not smoking) to bloom the chili without burning.
- 3Pour the oil in two stages: a small splash first to temper the flakes, then the rest to prevent violent bubbling.
- 4Store the cooled chili oil in an airtight glass jar in the fridge; it keeps for up to 3 months.
- 5To deepen flavor, add a star anise or Sichuan peppercorn to the oil while heating, then strain before pouring.
- 6Let the oil fully cool before sealing to avoid condensation that can cause spoilage.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sichuan-style
Add 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns to the oil while heating, then strain them out before pouring. This adds a signature numbing, citrusy heat that pairs perfectly with spicy noodles.
Garlic gingerGarlic-ginger
Add 2 thinly sliced garlic cloves and a 1-inch piece of ginger to the oil as it heats; remove before pouring. Ideal for dumpling dipping sauces or stir-fries.
Smoky chipotleSmoky chipotle
Substitute half the red chili flakes with dried chipotle flakes. The smoky depth works wonderfully on tacos, eggs, or roasted vegetables.
Extra crunchyExtra crunchy
After pouring the oil, stir in 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil and 1 tablespoon crispy fried shallots for texture and a richer finish.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Natural Metabolism Boost
Capsaicin in red chili flakes may temporarily increase metabolic rate and promote fat oxidation, though effects are modest.
Rich in Antioxidants
Red chili peppers contain vitamin C and carotenoids like beta-carotene, which help fight oxidative stress in the body.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Using a neutral vegetable oil like avocado or canola provides unsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health when used in moderation.
Contains Healthy Minerals
Sesame seeds contribute calcium, magnesium, and zinc, supporting bone health and immune function.
Frequently asked questions
Not recommended—olive oil has a low smoke point and will burn, giving a bitter taste. Stick with neutral, high-smoke-point oils like avocado, canola, or grapeseed.
