Spicy Chili Crisp is a popular Chinese condiment that has developed a cult following in recent years. It is a versatile and flavorful raayu sauce that adds spiciness to any dish. The combination of crunchy fried garlic, shallots, and peanuts with the spiciness of red chili peppers creates a complex and addictive flavor. Spicy chili crisp is often used as a dipping sauce for dumplings, noodles, and other dishes, but its uses extend far beyond that.
It can be used as a marinade, a topping for soups & salads, and even as a flavor enhancer for stir-fries and grilled meats. The main ingredients in Spicy Chili Crisp are red chilies, Szechuan peppers, garlic, shallots, peanuts, and various spices and seasonings. The red chilies are the star of the show, providing the spiciness and bright red color to the seasoning. Sichuan peppers add a distinctive numbing and tingling sensation to the sauce that is characteristic of Sichuan cuisine. Garlic and shallots are sauteed until crispy, adding a crunchy texture and savory flavor to the seasoning.
Peanuts are also sauteed until crispy, adding a nutty richness to the sauce. Spices and seasonings such as ginger, star anise, cinnamon, and bay leaves are often used to enhance the flavor of the seasoning. Making spicy chili crisp at home is surprisingly easy and involves a few simple steps. First, you need to gather all the important ingredients mentioned earlier. Heat the oil in a frying pan & fry the garlic, shallots, & peanuts until crispy and golden brown.
Once fried, remove them from the oil. In the same oil, add the red pepper, Sichuan pepper, other spices and seasonings and saute until fragrant. Next, pour the hot oil over the fried garlic, shallots and peanuts. Allow the mixture to cool before transferring to a jar for storage.
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chili Flakes | 2 cups |
| Sichuan Peppercorns | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic | 1/2 cup, minced |
| Ginger | 1/4 cup, minced |
| Green Onions | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Soy Sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Black Vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Sesame Oil | 2 tbsp |
The traditional recipe for Spicy Chili Crisp is delicious as is, but there are many variations to suit different tastes. Those who prefer a milder spiciness can reduce the amount of red chiles used or remove the seeds to make it less spicy. On the other hand, those who like it very hot can increase the spiciness by adding more chili peppers or using hot varieties such as Thai bird’s eye chili peppers. Depending on the variation, dried shrimp, fermented black beans, or preserved vegetables may be added to add depth of flavor.
Another popular variation is to add sweetness with honey or sugar to balance the spiciness. Spicy chili crisp is surprisingly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. One of the most common uses is as a dipping sauce for dumplings, noodles, and spring rolls.
Its crunchy texture and bold flavor add an extra dimension to these dishes. It can also be used as a marinade before grilling or roasting poultry, pork, tofu, or other meats. The spicy, savory flavor of the seasoning enhances the delicious taste of the meat. Spicy Chili Crisp can also be used as a topping for soups, salads, and avocado toast, adding a spicy kick and crunchy texture.
They can also be used to flavor stir-fries or mixed into fried rice for an extra kick of flavor. The possibilities are endless when using Spicy Chili Crisps in cooking. Spicy chili crisps are known for their bold flavor and spicy kick, but also for the health benefits of their main ingredient. Red chilies contain capsaicin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting properties. It also suppresses appetite and increases satiety, which may be helpful in weight management.
Garlic and shallots are known to boost immunity & help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Peanuts are a source of high-quality protein, healthy fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and niacin. Sichuan peppercorns have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for their digestive benefits and their ability to relieve stomach upset such as bloating and indigestion. Although spicy chili crisp should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high oil content, its key ingredients offer several potential health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Its bold flavor, crunchy texture, and versatility make it an essential condiment in any kitchen. Whether used as a dipping sauce, marinade, topping, or flavor enhancer, Spicy Chili Crisp adds an irresistible spicy kick to any dish. It is no wonder that Spicy Chili Crisp has become a staple in many households. Whether enjoyed in its traditional form or customized with a variety of variations, Spicy Chili Crisp is sure to add a dash of flavor to any dish. Make some at home & experience the magic of this addictive condiment.
FAQs
What are the main ingredients in Spicy Chili Crisp?
The main ingredients in Spicy Chili Crisp typically include chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, shallots, and various spices and seasonings.
Are there any common allergens in Spicy Chili Crisp?
Spicy Chili Crisp may contain allergens such as peanuts, soy, and gluten, so it’s important to check the label if you have allergies.
Is Spicy Chili Crisp suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Spicy Chili Crisp is typically suitable for vegetarians and vegans as it does not contain any animal products.
Does Spicy Chili Crisp contain MSG?
Some brands of Spicy Chili Crisp may contain monosodium glutamate (MSG), so it’s important to check the label if you are sensitive to this ingredient.
What are the health benefits of Spicy Chili Crisp ingredients?
The ingredients in Spicy Chili Crisp, such as chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, are known for their potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, it’s important to consume spicy condiments in moderation.
