If you’re craving a spicy, crunchy condiment that packs layers of flavor and texture, this Homemade Peanut Chili Crisp Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Combining the nutty richness of roasted peanuts with the fiery kick of chili flakes, balanced by subtle garlic and a touch of sweetness, it transforms everyday dishes into unforgettable bites. Whether drizzled over noodles, stirred into rice, or just enjoyed by the spoonful, this vibrant chili crisp brings warmth, crunch, and a perfect harmony of tastes every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing this Homemade Peanut Chili Crisp Recipe is refreshingly straightforward with just a handful of kitchen staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the roasted peanuts contributing satisfying crunch and nutty depth to the chili flakes adding that spicy spark you crave.
- Roasted Peanuts: Unsalted ones offer better seasoning control and bring delightful crunch.
- Chili Flakes: Choose your heat level carefully; they ignite the crisp’s signature fiery flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory foundation that deepens the overall taste immensely.
- Sugar: A small dose balances the heat and melds the flavors beautifully.
- Salt: Enhances all other ingredients, making every bite pop.
- Vegetable Oil: Perfect for frying and coaxing out the nuts’ rich aroma.
How to Make Homemade Peanut Chili Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by warming your vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. This step is essential for unlocking the peanuts’ toasted flavor and creating a lush oil base that will carry the spices perfectly.
Step 2: Roast the Peanuts
Next, toss the roasted peanuts into the sizzling oil, stirring constantly. Watch closely as they turn a golden brown, releasing that irresistible nutty aroma—usually in about 3 to 5 minutes. This roasting elevates the texture, ensuring each bite has a satisfying crunch.
Step 3: Prepare the Spice Mixture
While the peanuts roast, whisk together the chili flakes, garlic powder, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. This blend is the heart of your chili crisp’s flavor profile — spicy, savory, and just a hint of sweet to round everything out.
Step 4: Combine Peanuts and Spices
Transfer the hot peanuts right into the spice bowl and give everything a thorough stir. The heat from the nuts will help bloom the spices and infuse the oil with that fiery, garlicky goodness, coating every single peanut piece beautifully.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Allow your Homemade Peanut Chili Crisp Recipe to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, scoop it into an airtight container where it will keep its crunch and vivid flavors, ready to spice up your meals at any moment.
How to Serve Homemade Peanut Chili Crisp Recipe
Garnishes
This chili crisp shines as a topping on so many dishes. Sprinkle it over steamed vegetables, scrambled eggs, or noodle bowls for an instant flavor upgrade and enticing crunch that makes every bite more exciting.
Side Dishes
You’ll find that this chili crisp pairs brilliantly with simple side dishes like jasmine rice or roasted potatoes. It adds a welcoming heat and richness that turns the ordinary into something truly special.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Swirl some Homemade Peanut Chili Crisp Recipe into dressings or sauces to add unexpected depth. It also makes a fantastic mix-in for dips or spreads where the crunchy, spicy texture can wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your chili crisp fresh by storing it in a sealed jar or container in a cool, dry place. It will maintain its crispiness and flavor for several weeks, ready to add zest whenever you need.
Freezing
While not necessary, you can freeze the chili crisp for longer storage. Just use a freezer-safe container and thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to use it again.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this chili crisp before using because it’s great straight from storage. If you want to refresh the aroma, you can briefly warm it in a dry pan over low heat to release the nutty oils again.
FAQs
Can I use salted peanuts instead of unsalted?
You can, but it’s best to reduce or omit additional salt in the spice mix to avoid over-salting. Unsalted peanuts give you more control over the final flavor.
How spicy is the Homemade Peanut Chili Crisp Recipe?
It depends on how much chili flakes you use. You can start with less chili and adjust to taste, making it mild or fiery to suit your spice tolerance.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil?
Yes! Neutral oils like canola or peanut oil work well, but avoid strong-flavored oils as they can overpower the balance of the crisp.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely. All ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan condiment to add depth and spice to your dishes.
How long does the chili crisp last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to a month at room temperature, or longer if refrigerated.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Peanut Chili Crisp Recipe has quickly become one of my top pantry staples because it’s so simple yet incredibly versatile. It effortlessly adds warmth, crunch, and a punch of flavor to virtually any meal. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself and experience the joy it brings. Trust me, once you have a jar of this on hand, your cooking game will never be the same!
Print
Homemade Peanut Chili Crisp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4.4 servings
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Homemade Peanut Chilli Crisp is a spicy, crunchy condiment perfect for elevating your dishes. Combining roasted peanuts with chili flakes and aromatic spices, it offers a delightful balance of heat, sweetness, and savory flavor. Quick and easy to make, this versatile chili crisp adds a flavorful kick to noodles, rice bowls, and more.
Ingredients
Peanuts
- 1 cup roasted peanuts (unsalted for better control of seasoning)
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili flakes (adjust based on spice tolerance)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds savory depth)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (balances the heat)
- ½ teaspoon salt (enhances flavors)
Oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (used for frying)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil, allowing it to warm up for about 1 minute.
- Roast peanuts: Add the roasted peanuts to the skillet and stir frequently to brown them evenly. Continue cooking for about 3-5 minutes until the peanuts are golden brown and fragrant.
- Prepare spice mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the chili flakes, garlic powder, sugar, and salt, mixing well to blend the flavors evenly.
- Combine peanuts and spices: Once the peanuts are roasted, transfer them immediately into the bowl with the spice mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat the peanuts evenly with the chili and seasoning blend.
- Cool and store: Allow the peanut chili crisp mixture to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container for storage, preserving the crispness and flavors.
Notes
- Adjust chili flakes quantity according to your heat preference.
- Using unsalted peanuts gives better control over the seasoning balance.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Use as a topping for noodles, fried rice, dumplings, or eggs.
- Ensure peanuts are roasted evenly to avoid burning and bitterness.
