What Makes Chili Oil the Perfect Asian Seasoning?

 

Asian cuisine is known for its bold flavours, intricate spices and delightful blend of ingredients. In this traditional cooking niche, only some ingredients possess the power and versatility of chilli oil. However, this aromatic condiment has crossed borders and has now become a staple in countless dishes all over the world. Follow along to uncover why chilli oil is the quintessential seasoning in Asian culinary traditions. 

What is Chili Oil?

Chilli oil is a spicy sauce made by infusing oil with dried chilli peppers, spices and aromatics. The combination of oil and chilli creates a strong base, which adds a kick to every bite. This gives it and the dishes paired with it a vibrant and complex flavour. Common ingredients in chilli oil include garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns and star anise infused in an oil base of choice.

Why Chilli Oil is the Perfect Asian Seasoning

 Chilli oil is a versatile ingredient widely used in various Asian cuisines, such as Chinese, Thai, Korean, and Vietnamese. It adds depth and a spicy kick to soups, stir-fries, noodles and more, which makes it the perfect seasoning for Asian dishes. Here are a few more reasons that make it perfect.

1. Chilli oil packs a punch of spicy heat while also imparting a rich, savoury flavour to dishes. The oil base of chilli oil helps distribute its flavour evenly throughout the dish, ensuring each bite is well-seasoned.

2. Homemade chilli oil allows for customisation with different types of chilli peppers, spices, and oil bases, allowing cooks to tailor the flavour to their preferences. It also has a long shelf life, making it a convenient pantry staple for adding instant flavour to meals.

3. Chilli oil originated as a dietary aid exclusively for medicinal uses, which is why it has deep cultural roots in Asian cuisine. Due to the added health benefits, it quickly became central in many traditional dishes and recipes as it was passed down through generations. 

In conclusion, chilli oil is revered for its fiery heat, bold flavours and aromas. As the humble chilli oil transcends borders, its journey from a medicinal remedy to a fast-food condiment captivates food enthusiasts. If you want to explore the rich tastes of Asian cuisine, have a look at the chilli oil lineup by Moi Soi. They use all organic and 100 percent locally sourced products so that they can bring magic to every tastebud they grace. Their products range from chilli oil and hot sauces to RTE Asian noodles and Thai curries. Visit Moi Soi to try the latest range of ready-to-eat foods that bring oriental flavour rights to your doorstep.