Crunchy Spice Oil Recipes

HOW TO MAKE CHILI OIL

Steps:

• Gather all the aromatics you plan to use. Place oil and selected aromatics into a pot with at least two inches of clearance between the oil and the rim of the pot. If using minimum aromatics, 1 ½ cups of oil should do it. If using all the aromatics, you can add up to 3 cups of oil.
• Set it over medium heat to start, then progressively lower it to medium low or low heat as the oil comes to temperature. The oil should be at about 225-250° F / 110-120° C and causing small bubbles to slowly rise from the aromatics. If you notice the spices sizzling more vigorously than that or turning dark too quickly, reduce the heat to cool it down. If you are not achieving small bubbles, slowly increase the heat. Hovering around 200-225° F is the safest way to prevent burning. Infuse the aromatics this way for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for best results.
• While the oil is infusing, prepare your Sichuan chili flakes by placing them in a heatproof bowl. If you used 1½ cups of oil, ¾ cup of chili flakes is best. For 3 cups of oil, use 1¼ cups of chili flakes. You can experiment within this range (if you like more oil and fewer flakes, for instance).
• Generally, the oil should be between 225-250° F (110-120° C) when pouring over the chili flakes. If you like a darker color, opt for 250-275° F/135° C. If your chili flakes are already super roasted, you may want to be closer to 225° F/110° C. When in doubt, test the oil on a small bowl of chili flakes before you do the rest. Carefully pour the hot oil through a strainer onto the chili flakes. Stir to evenly distribute the heat of the oil. You'll know you've gotten it right when you smell a "popcorn"-like smell that is not at all burnt-smelling.
• Stir in the salt, and allow the chili oil to cool. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Always use a clean utensil when handling to prevent spoilage. It can last for up to 6 months if handled in this way.

SCALLOP RICE BOWLS WITH CRUNCHY SPICE OIL

Steps:

• Pat scallops dry, then season on all sides with ½ tsp. salt.
• Heat ginger and 1 Tbsp. oil in a large high-sided skillet or medium Dutch oven over medium until oil is hot. Add kale and ¼ cup water and toss to coat. Cook until kale is wilted and water is evaporated, 5-7 minutes. Season with remaining ½ tsp. salt.
• Meanwhile, heat remaining 2 Tbsp oil in large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Cook scallops until golden brown and firm to the touch, about 3 minutes per side.
• Divide scallops among shallow bowls or plates; arrange kale, avocado, and some rice next to scallops. Drizzle with spice oil and serve with lemons for squeezing over.

CRUNCHY SPICE OIL

Steps:

• Heat oil, garlic, sesame seeds, mustard seeds, cumin seeds, pink peppercorns, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over medium-high until oil is sizzling and bubbling, about 2 minutes. Immediately reduce heat to low and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until garlic is golden brown and spices are fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in salt, paprika, and maple syrup. Let cool. Transfer to an airtight container.
• Do ahead: Spice oil can be made 1 month ahead. Cover and chill.