Hot chili oil

Hot chili oil is an Asian condiment made with dried hot chile steeped in oil with some additional flavorings like garlic and ginger.  This oil is used widely in Chinese and other Asian cooking.  You will frequently see this hot oil sitting on the table in most Chinese restaurants.

Uses For Hot Chili Oil

This oil is frequently used in dipping sauces but it can be added any dish where you want to add some heat and flavor.  I liked to drizzle over hot rice. You can add it to your favorite sesame dressing recipe or add it to a marinade for chicken or pork.

Where To Buy It

This is a really common condiment and you'll probably finding in the "ethnic foods" section of most any well stocked grocery store.  Of course you can always find it online at Amazon.com.  Look for Dynasty brand which is pretty good.

What To Substitute For Hot Chili Oil

If you ran out of hot chili oil or just don't have it and don't want to buy it you can use one of these substitutes.

• Combine 2 tablespoons of corn or peanut oil with 1 tablespoon Cayenne pepper. It won't be exactly the same but it will due in a pinch.
• If you have a little bit of time heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a small pan for about 5 minutes with 1 tablespoon hot chile flakes and one finely minced garlic clove. Remove it from the stove and allow the mixture to steep for about 10 minutes. Don't allow the the ingredients to burn.
• If you want a more sophisticated homemade version try this recipe from Bon Appetite.