Easy Chili Crisp

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2 cups
  • 2 cups

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To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

Microwave oven by power - 700w
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Recommended 

Dish

The Large Deep Dish

Ingredients

  • 1 ¼ cups (300ml) peanut or vegetable oil
  • ½ cup (40g) shallots, thinly sliced
  • 8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup (35g) red chili flakes
  • ¼ cup (40g) toasted peanuts, finely chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons ginger, finely minced

Preparation

  1. Place the oil, shallots, and garlic in an Anyday dish. Cook in the microwave uncovered for minutes, or until shallots and garlic are toasted and crispy. (Thinner slices will cook faster; thicker will cook slower.)
  2. Carefully remove the Anyday dish and allow it to rest for 1 minute. Note: the oil will be extremely hot, so this resting time lets it cool slightly for safety.
  3. Add the chili flakes, peanuts, cinnamon, sugar, salt, soy sauce, and ginger into the hot oil and mix well. Allow it to sit until it comes to room temperature.


Suggestions

  • Customize the heat: Use standard red chili flakes or a blend of Aleppo pepper and gochugaru, for a balanced mix of heat, smokiness, and mild sweetness.
  • Blend with miso: Stir chili crisp into miso paste for a spicy umami-packed seasoning that works as a marinade, soup base, or dressing.
  • Enhance the aroma: Add ground cumin, cardamom pods, and star anise for a deeper, more complex spice profile.
  • Drizzle on everything: Pour over vegetables, rice, poached eggs, meat, or even noodles to add a spicy, savory crunch.

Recipe Notes

  • The cooking time is based on how long it takes the garlic and shallots to cook. The thicker they are the longer they will need to crips up.
  • If fresh ginger is not available, use ½ teaspoon of ground ginger instead.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

All You Need to Know About Making Chili Crisp in the Microwave

What is chili crisp?

Chili crisp is a spicy, crunchy oil-based condiment made with crispy garlic, shallots, red chili flakes, and seasonings. It adds savory heat to noodles, rice, eggs, and more.

Can I make chili crisp in the microwave?

Yes! Microwaving chili crisp is the fastest way to infuse garlic, shallots, and chili flakes into oil without using a stovetop. Using an Anyday dish ensures even heating and prevents splatters.

What type of oil is best for chili crisp?

Use neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil. These oils allow the chili, garlic, and shallots to shine without overpowering the flavor.

How spicy is chili crisp?

The spice level depends on the amount and type of chili flakes used. Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer chili flakes or balancing with sugar for a milder flavor.

How long does homemade chili crisp last?

Store chili crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 month. The flavors intensify over time, making it even more delicious.

How do I use chili crisp?

Chili crisp is perfect for:

  • Drizzling over noodles, dumplings, or fried rice.
  • Mixing into soups, sauces, and dressings.
  • Topping eggs, grilled meats, or avocado toast.

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