The Rise in Popularity of Chilli Oil in the UK
The Rise in Popularity of Chilli Oil in the UK
Novices, food lovers! If you’ve been following food trends lately, you’ve probably noticed a spicy little condiment popping up everywhere - chilli oil. It seems like every supermarket, restaurant, even us at Novice Kitchen HQ and home cook are getting in on the action. But what’s behind this fiery rise in popularity? And how can you use it to spice up your meals? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered in this post all about the delicious world of chilli oil.
What is Chilli Oil?
Chilli oil, or “chilli crisp,” is a condiment made by infusing oil with dried chillies and other aromatic ingredients. You might also find extra flavour from garlic, shallots, sesame seeds, or even peanuts in some varieties. This rich, spicy oil has a deep, earthy heat that’s a bit different from your regular hot sauce. It's usually used as a topping or finishing touch rather than a cooking ingredient, giving your dishes that extra punch of flavour.
Why is Chilli Oil becoming so Popular in the UK?
The rise of chilli oil in the UK can be linked to the continued growth of Chinese and Sichuan cuisines. Thanks to chefs such as Guirong Wei (recently featured on Netflix’s “Chef’s Table”) and food entrepreneurs, we’ve been introduced to new flavours and textures we might not have encountered before. Chilli oil, with its crunchy texture and savoury depth, provides a great alternative to the usual vinegary hot sauces we’re used to.
Brands like Lao Gan Ma’s Spicy Chilli Crisp, which has a huge following worldwide, helped bring this condiment to the forefront. It’s so popular that it’s now considered the benchmark for chilli oil, with other restaurants and small businesses, like Novice Kitchen, Mama Yu and Yep Kitchen, launching their own versions to meet the growing demand.
How Can You Use Chilli Oil?
One of the best things about chilli oil is its versatility. It’s not just for Chinese food—it can elevate dishes from all kinds of cuisines. Here are some fun ways to use it:
- As a Topping – Drizzle it over scrambled eggs, pizza, or avocado toast for an extra burst of flavour.
- In Stir-Fries and Noodles – Add it to stir-fried vegetables, rice, or noodles for a spicy kick.
- With Meat or Tofu – Use it as a marinade for meat, fish, or tofu before grilling, broiling, or frying.
- In Dips and Sauces – Mix it into mayonnaise or sour cream for a zesty dip, or use it to spice up your favourite sauce.
- On Roasted Veggies – Toss roasted broccoli, squash, or eggplant with chilli oil for a crunchy, spicy twist.
- On Ice Cream – It might sound surprising, but a spoonful of chilli oil over vanilla ice cream is surprisingly delicious!
Types of Chilli Oil
You might have seen different types of chilli oil on the shelves, each with its unique flavour profile. Here’s a quick rundown of some popular ones:
- Novice Kitchen Sichuan Chilli Crunch – A premium version that packs a punch with Sichuan peppercorns, giving you that signature numbing sensation.
- Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chilli Crisp – This is the classic, with a mix of heat and crunchy bits of garlic and chilli. It’s widely available and great for those just starting with chilli oil.
- Mama Yu – This chilli oil is taking the foodie community by storm, run by mother and daughter duo Jolene and Xiengni. This Malaysian Chinese chilli oil is a bit more complex, this one has a layered heat and a noticeable care has been taken in handcrafting each jar.
- Yep Kitchen – Founder Tom spent a decade in China before deciding to launch a brand dedicated to showcasing bold umami flavours of China’s southwest. Not too spicy, with a pleasant warmth and full of flavour.
As you can see, there’s a whole world of chilli oil out there, each with different levels of heat and crunch. Don’t be afraid to try a few and find your favourite!
FAQs on Chilli Oil
Q: What’s the difference between chilli oil and chilli crisp?
Great question! While both are oil-based and infused with chillies, chilli crisp typically has more solid ingredients like garlic, shallots, or sesame seeds mixed in. This gives it a crunchier texture compared to regular chilli oil, which tends to be smoother.
Q: Is chilli oil very spicy?
Chilli oil can vary in spice levels. Some brands have a mild, warming heat, while others, like Sichuan-style chilli oils, can be quite intense. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a milder version and add more gradually.
Q: Can I make chilli oil at home?
Absolutely! Making your own chilli oil is super easy. All you need is oil (vegetable, sesame, or peanut), dried chillies, garlic, and any other aromatics or spices you like. Heat the oil and infuse the spices to your desired level, then strain out the solids for a smooth oil or leave them in for a crunchy texture.
Q: How do I store chilli oil?
Store your chilli oil in a cool, dark place or in the fridge once opened to maintain freshness. Shake the jar before using to mix the oil with the crispy bits, as they tend to settle at the bottom.
Conclusion
The rise in popularity of chilli oil in the UK is part of a larger movement towards bold, complex flavours in food. Whether you're using it to spice up your dinner or drizzle it on a pizza, this fiery condiment adds a satisfying depth to your meals. With so many varieties out there, you’re sure to find a chilli oil that suits your taste and spice tolerance.
Ready to get your hands on some chilli oil and start experimenting? Your tastebuds will thank you!
Enjoy cooking Novices,
Novice Kitchen 🌶️