/ck/ - Food & Cooking

>>20228808
>why go through all the hassle when you can buy a jar for like 3 bucks
It's an example of an easy inexpensive condiment that is significantly better when made fresh.

>>20228281
Use fresh whole dried chilis, they should still be slightly pliable, chopped fairly fine. Don't use italian red chili flakes, they will burn and won't be very aromatic. For 1.5 cups oil, use 0.75 cup chili.
First infuse the oil on low heat with some whole spices like star anise, fennel seed, cinnamon, bay leaf, fresh garlic/shallot and szechuan peppercorn. Strain the infused oil and heat it to about 300°F (150°C).
Pour a small amount over the chili flakes to toast them, then 90 seconds later with slightly cooler oil pour the rest slowly over the chili, add a splash of soy sauce and a pinch of salt and msg.
You'll know you got it right if it smells like popcorn and the chilis just turn a darker shade of red, but not brown or black.