Name: Chilli Garlic Crisp Oil
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 cup vegetable oil ((or other neutral oil)); 12 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 2 whole star anise; ¼ cup dried red chilli flakes; ¼ cup store-bought fried shallots ((See Notes)); 2 tablespoons dried garlic granules; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon sea salt

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Your New Favourite Pantry Staple – Bold, Crunchy and Addictive

This Chilli Garlic Crisp Oil is a simple homemade condiment that transforms everyday meals into bold, flavour-packed dishes. With sizzling garlic, toasted chilli flakes and a rich, aromatic oil base, this recipe delivers a spicy-crisp punch that lifts noodles, stir fries, eggs, or even toast into something seriously delicious.

Close-up hero shot of a jar of chilli garlic crisp oil filled with red chilli flakes, garlic and sesame seeds in rich red oil, styled on a white timber surface with scattered chilli flakes, garlic cloves, crispy shallots and a small bowl of chilli oil in bright natural light.

Why You’ll Love This

Easy to make with simple pantry staples (oil, garlic, chilli flakes, a few spices).
Creates a deeply flavourful, aromatic chilli oil that adds heat and crunch.
Very versatile — drizzle over noodles, rice, eggs, stir-fries or even avocado toast.
Keeps well in the fridge, so you’ve always got a flavour-packed finishing touch on hand.

How to Make the Chilli Garlic Crisp Oil

Gently fry thinly sliced garlic (and optionally shallots) in neutral oil until just golden and crunchy – remove from oil carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Combine chilli flakes (or your chosen chillis), salt, sugar and any spices or flavourings in a heatproof bowl.
Pour the hot oil over the chilli mixture – the sizzling sound lets you know you’re on track. Stir carefully to meld flavours.
Once the oil mixture cools, add crunchy bits (fried garlic/shallots, nuts or seeds if using). Transfer to a clean jar.
Let the oil rest at least a few hours (or overnight) to let flavours deepen before using.

Close-up of a jar of chilli garlic crisp oil filled with red chilli flakes, garlic and sesame seeds in rich red oil, styled on a white timber surface with scattered chilli flakes, garlic cloves, crispy shallots and a small bowl of chilli oil in bright natural light.

hand spooning chilli garlic crisp oil over dumplings in a white bowl.

Tips for the Best Chilli Garlic Crisp Oil

Refrigeration is Key: Transfer the oil into a sealed jar or container, and store it in the refrigerator. The cold environment helps preserve the freshness and prevents the oil from becoming rancid.
Avoid Exposure to Light: Store the jar in a dark area of the refrigerator or use an opaque container. Exposure to light can lead to deterioration of the oil’s quality.
Check for Signs of Spoilage: While Chilli Garlic Crisp Oil has a relatively long shelf life, it’s essential to periodically check for any signs of spoilage. If you notice an off smell, unusual color changes, or if the oil develops a rancid taste, it’s time to discard it.

Storage

Once cooled, keep the oil in a clean, airtight jar in the fridge. Properly prepared and refrigerated, it should stay fresh for several weeks. Because the garlic, shallots (if used) and any crunchy bits are fully dry and crisp, the oil keeps stable – making this chilli crisp a brilliant make-ahead pantry staple you can reach for anytime.

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle this chilli garlic crisp oil over hot noodles or stir-fry for an instant flavour upgrade. It’s incredible on scrambled or fried eggs — perfect for breakfast or late-night snacks. Add a spoon to soups or stews for warmth and crunch, or toss it through rice, drizzle over avocado toast, roasted veggies, chicken wings, pizza, dumplings — really, anything that needs a flavour boost.

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