Description
Trader Joe’s Chili Onion Crunch is a vibrant, spicy condiment combining toasted dried arbol chiles, minced garlic and onion, and aromatic spices, all blended with oil to create a flavorful crunchy chili oil perfect for adding heat and texture to a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
Spices & Dry Ingredients
- 12-15 dried arbol chiles, stemmed
- ¼ cup dried minced onion
- 2 tablespoons dried minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon ancho chile powder
Oil
- ½ cup light olive oil (or avocado oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chiles: Process the 12-15 dried arbol chiles in a small food processor until you achieve coarse flakes, being careful not to grind it into powder for optimal texture.
- Toast Onions and Garlic: Heat a small skillet over low heat until warm. Add the dried minced onion and dried minced garlic, toasting while stirring constantly until the pieces darken slightly and emit a nutty aroma, about a few minutes.
- Add and Toast Chiles: Add the processed arbol chile flakes along with the crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir constantly and toast just until the peppers are fragrant, then remove from heat to utilize residual warmth without burning.
- Mix in Spices: Stir in the sweet paprika, fine sea salt, and ancho chile powder thoroughly to evenly coat the mixture with seasoning.
- Combine with Oil: Transfer the toasted mixture into a jar, then pour the light olive oil on top. Stir until the dry solids are coated and the oil begins to develop an orangish-red hue.
- Infuse Flavors: Let the mixture rest at room temperature until completely cooled, then cover and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld and intensify over time.
Notes
- Use a light olive oil or avocado oil to keep the flavor balanced without overpowering the chili’s heat.
- Adjust the number of arbol chiles to modify the spiciness to your preference.
- The chili flakes should be coarse for texture, not powdered.
- Refrigerate to extend shelf life; use within a month for best flavor.
- Great as a condiment for noodles, eggs, rice dishes, or to spice up sauces and marinades.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
