If you love bold flavors that bring a vibrant kick to any dish without the added salt, then this Salt-Free Chili Garlic Oil Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s an irresistible blend of fiery chili flakes and pungent garlic, infused lovingly into neutral oil for a silky, spicy condiment that brightens up everything from noodles to roasted veggies. What makes this version truly special is its salt-free nature, giving you full control to season your meals just the way you like, all while packing in irresistible warmth and depth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Salt-Free Chili Garlic Oil Recipe relies on a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, each playing a vital role in its flavor, texture, and aroma. Together, they create a beautifully balanced condiment that’s both spicy and richly aromatic.
- 1 cup neutral oil (avocado, grapeseed, or canola): This forms the silky base that carries all the vibrant flavors gently.
- 1/2 cup crushed red chili flakes: The heart of this oil, delivering that signature heat and deep red hue.
- 1/4 cup finely minced garlic: Adds punchy aroma and a slightly sweet bite once infused.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (optional): Brings smoky warmth and a subtle earthy undertone without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns (optional): Offers a unique tingly citrus note that elevates the chili’s depth.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional): Balances the heat with a whisper of sweetness, rounding out the flavor.
How to Make Salt-Free Chili Garlic Oil Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Flavor Base
Start by combining the crushed red chili flakes, minced garlic, smoked paprika if using, ground Sichuan peppercorns, and sugar in a heatproof bowl. This mix sets the stage for your spicy oil, ensuring every bit of flavor infuses beautifully.
Step 2: Heat the Oil Gently
Place your neutral oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Warm it until it reaches about 325°F, just enough for small bubbles to begin forming around the edges. This temperature is key to releasing aromas from your ingredients without burning them.
Step 3: Infuse the Oil
Carefully pour the hot oil over your chili and garlic mixture, stirring gently to combine. You’ll hear a satisfying sizzle as the flavors bloom instantly. The hot oil softens the chili flakes and garlic, extracting their vibrant oils right into the liquid gold.
Step 4: Cool and Rest
Allow the oil to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it into a clean glass jar. For the best flavor, let your Salt-Free Chili Garlic Oil Recipe rest for at least 12 hours to fully develop its spicy complexity before diving in.
How to Serve Salt-Free Chili Garlic Oil Recipe
Garnishes
This chili garlic oil is a fantastic garnish that livens up everything it touches. Drizzle it over steamed dumplings, drizzle on fresh spring rolls, or toss it with diced tofu or grilled veggies for an instant flavor boost.
Side Dishes
Pairing this oil with steamed rice, stir-fried greens, or noodle bowls brings life to simple sides. Because it’s salt-free, it lets you adjust seasoning on your plates perfectly while still bringing plenty of heat and aroma.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Use this Salt-Free Chili Garlic Oil Recipe as a dip base mixed with some soy sauce and a splash of rice vinegar. Or swirl it into hummus or creamy avocado toast for a fiery twist. The possibilities are endless and always delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your chili garlic oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will safely last up to one month. Always use a clean spoon when scooping to avoid contamination and keep the flavors fresh.
Freezing
While this oil can technically be frozen, it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. Freezing may cause the garlic and spices to lose some of their vibrant texture and flavor integrity.
Reheating
To use your preserved chili garlic oil, there’s no need to reheat. Just bring it to room temperature if it solidifies, then stir well and add a splash to your dishes for immediate zing and warmth.
FAQs
Can I use different types of oil for this recipe?
Absolutely! Neutral oils like avocado, grapeseed, or canola work best because they don’t overpower the chili and garlic flavors, but you can experiment with light sesame oil for a nuttier twist.
Is this recipe really salt-free? How does that affect flavor?
Yes, it’s completely free of added salt, which makes it a fantastic condiment for those watching sodium intake. The oil focuses on natural heat and aromatic flavors, so you can season your dishes separately to taste.
How long should I let the oil rest before using it?
We recommend letting it rest for at least 12 hours so the flavors fully meld together. The longer it sits, the deeper and more harmonious the flavor becomes.
Can I adjust the heat level in this chili garlic oil?
Definitely! You can reduce or increase the amount of crushed red chili flakes depending on your personal spice tolerance, making it as mild or fiery as you like.
Is this oil safe to store at room temperature?
Since it contains fresh garlic, it’s safest to store your chili garlic oil in the refrigerator to prevent any risk of spoilage and maintain freshness for up to one month.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely magical about this Salt-Free Chili Garlic Oil Recipe that turns any meal from ordinary to unforgettable. Its vibrant heat, aromatic garlic punch, and gorgeous red hues make it a staple you’ll reach for again and again. Give it a try and watch how a simple drizzle can ignite your favorite dishes with warmth and bold flavor!
Print
Salt-Free Chili Garlic Oil Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/2 cups
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free, Low Lactose
Description
This vibrant and aromatic Chili Garlic Oil is a salt-free condiment perfect for adding a spicy kick to your dishes. Made with neutral oil, crushed red chili flakes, minced garlic, and optional spices like smoked paprika and Sichuan peppercorns, this homemade chili oil is infused on the stovetop and ideal for enhancing Asian-inspired meals or any dish needing bold flavor without added salt.
Ingredients
Oil
- 1 cup neutral oil such as avocado, grapeseed, or canola oil
Spices and Aromatics
- 1/2 cup crushed red chili flakes
- 1/4 cup finely minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional for balance)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: In a heatproof bowl, combine the crushed red chili flakes, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground Sichuan peppercorns, and sugar if using. Mix them together to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Heat the Oil: Pour the neutral oil into a small saucepan and heat it over medium heat. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and bring the oil to approximately 325°F, just until small bubbles start to form, indicating it’s hot but not smoking.
- Infuse the Oil: Carefully and slowly pour the hot oil over the chili and garlic mixture in the bowl. Stir gently with a spoon to combine, allowing the heat to release and meld the aromatic flavors into the oil.
- Cool and Store: Let the infused chili garlic oil cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the oil into a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Mature the Flavor: For best results, allow the oil to rest for at least 12 hours before using to let the flavors deepen and develop fully.
Notes
- Store the chili garlic oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
- Always use a clean spoon when scooping out oil to avoid contamination.
- This recipe is naturally salt-free; adjust seasoning separately in dishes as needed.
- Oil selection affects the flavor; neutral oils like grapeseed or avocado are recommended to keep the focus on the spices.
