chili garlicky onion crunch

Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch

Discover the magic of Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch, a versatile condiment that combines the flavours of garlic, onion, and spices with the satisfying crunch of perfectly toasted aromatics. Whether you’re spicing up fried rice, jazzing up noodles, or adding flair to roasted vegetables, this savoury, spicy, and slightly smoky topping will become your go-to flavour booster.

shrimp dumpling har gau with chilli garlicky onion crunch

This condiment is so good yet not too spicy. My kids can eat this no problem. Their favourite way of using this is over sticky rice and to drizzle it over their sui mai.

Looking for More Recipes to Serve this with? Check These Out!

Turnip Cake with Egg

Instant Pot Chicken Congee

Taro Cake

What is Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch?

Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch is a rich, aromatic chili oil made with a blend of minced garlic, dehydrated onion, red pepper flakes, paprika, soy sauce, salt, and oil. The result is a golden, spicy, umami-packed oil infused with crispy bits of onion and garlic. It’s the perfect balance of heat, crunch, and savoury depth that elevates any dish.

Here’s Why You Will Love Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch

  • Versatility: Use it as a topping for fried rice, noodles, soups, or salads. It also makes a flavorful marinade or dipping oil.
  • Easy to Make: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in under 10 minutes.
  • Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spiciness to your taste by tweaking the amount of red pepper flakes.
chilli oil

Equipment and Tools to Make Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch

Cutting board and knife

Small saucepan or skillet

Measuring spoons and cups

Airtight storage jar

Ingredients

Alright, let’s make our shopping list! To make this recipe, you will need…

Neutral oil: vegetable or canola are great options, I use canola in this recipe.

Dehydrated onion

Fresh garlic: I love garlic so much!

Red pepper flakes

Paprika

Light soy sauce

Coarse salt

How to Make Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch

Let’s make this easy condiment!

Heat the oil: In a small saucepan, warm the oil, dehydrated onion and minced garlic over low heat for 6 minutes until golden and fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning.

Incorporate spices: Stir in the red pepper flakes and paprika. Let the mixture simmer for another 1–2 minutes.

making chilli garlicky onion crunch

Cool and store: Remove from heat; add soy sauce and coarse salt. Allow to cool slightly, and transfer to an airtight jar for storage.

Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch Options and Substitutions

Want to mix things up with this recipe? Feel free to…

  • Oil Alternatives: Try sesame oil for a nutty flavor or olive oil for a milder taste.
  • Spice Adjustments: Add a pinch of sugar for sweetness or more paprika for extra smokiness.
  • Soy-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
Chilli oil with fried rice

Storage and Reheating Tips

The Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch refrigerates well in an air tight container for up to three weeks.

Make Ahead Options

Prepare a large batch of Garlicky Onion Crunch and portion it into smaller jars for meal prep or gifting. It freezes well and can be thawed in the refrigerator as needed.

Chilli oil condiment

Recipe Tips

Use low heat to avoid burning the garlic and onion—it’s better to cook them slowly for maximum flavour.

Stir frequently to ensure even toasting.

Taste at the end and adjust seasoning levels to your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch taste like? Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch is a bold blend of savoury, garlicky, and smoky flavors with a spicy kick and a satisfying crunch. The toasted garlic and onion bring nutty sweetness, balanced by the umami depth of soy sauce and the heat of red pepper flakes, making it an irresistible topping for any dish.

Can I make this less spicy? Absolutely! Reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or substitute with mild chili powder.

What dishes pair well with Garlicky Onion Crunch? This condiment is perfect for fried rice, dumplings, stir-fries, and even scrambled eggs!

Can I use fresh onion instead of dehydrated? Dehydrated onion provides a concentrated crunch and flavour. Fresh onion can be used, but it will require longer cooking to achieve the same texture.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning? Keep the heat on low and stir frequently while cooking. Burnt garlic can turn bitter.

chilli garlicky onion crunch with dim sum

Hungry for More Recipes to Serve this with?

Crispy Chow Mein

Thai Basil Fried Rice

Rice Cooker Chicken and Mushrooms

Yi Mein

Lastly, if you make my Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch be sure to leave a comment or give this recipe a star rating! I love to hear from you guys and respond to each and every comment. Also, don’t forget to tag me @cookwith.chopsticks and #cookwithchopsticks on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you have made makes me sooooo happy! You can also follow along on YouTube, TikTok, Facebook and Pinterest.

chili garlicky onion crunch

Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch

Cindy
Chili Garlicky Onion Crunch is a golden, spicy, umami-packed oil infused with crispy bits of onion and garlic. It’s the perfect balance of heat, crunch, and savoury depth that elevates any dish.
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 2 cups

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Saucepan small
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup neutral oil canola or vegetable
  • ½ cup dehydrated onion
  • ¼ cup garlic minced
  • 3 tbsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp light soy sauce
  • 1.5 tsp coarse salt

Instructions
 

  • Heat the oil: In a small saucepan, warm the oil, dehydrated onion and minced garlic over low heat for 6 minutes until golden and fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
  • Incorporate spices: Stir in the red pepper flakes and paprika. Let the mixture simmer for another 1–2 minutes.
  • Cool and store: Remove from heat; add soy sauce and coarse salt. Allow to cool slightly, and transfer to an airtight jar for storage.

Video

Notes

Use low heat to avoid burning the garlic and onion—it’s better to cook them slowly for maximum flavour.
Stir frequently to ensure even toasting.
Taste at the end and adjust seasoning levels to your preference.
Did you make this? Tag @cookwith.chopsticks and #cookwithchopsticks to share or leave a comment on the blog!
Keyword Chinese, Condiment, Garlic, Quick and Easy

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