Ingredients
Chili Flakes
- 12-15 dried arbol chiles, stemmed
- 2 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon ancho chile powder
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
Toasted Aromatics
- ¼ cup dried minced onion
- 2 tablespoons dried minced garlic
Oil
- ½ cup light olive oil (or avocado oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Arbol Chili Flakes: Process the 12-15 dried arbol chiles in a small food processor until coarse flakes form, avoiding turning them into a powder to retain texture.
- Toast Onions and Garlic: Warm a small skillet over low heat until just warm. Add the dried minced onion and dried minced garlic, stirring constantly. Toast for a few minutes until the pieces darken slightly and release a nutty aroma.
- Add Chili Flakes and Red Pepper: Introduce the prepared arbol chili flakes and crushed red pepper flakes into the skillet with the toasted onion and garlic. Continue stirring constantly until the peppers emit a fragrant aroma. Remove the skillet from heat to allow residual warmth to finish the toasting gently.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in the sweet paprika, fine sea salt, and ancho chile powder thoroughly until the seasonings are evenly distributed through the mixture.
- Combine with Oil: Transfer the toasted chili and onion mixture into a jar. Pour the light olive oil over the top and stir to coat all solids evenly. The oil will gradually take on an orangish-red hue as it infuses with the spices.
- Cool and Store: Let the mixture rest at room temperature until completely cooled. Cover the jar and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld and intensify over time.
Notes
- Use a food processor for evenly crushed arbol chiles, but pulse carefully to avoid powdering them.
- Toast spices and aromatics on low heat to prevent burning, stirring constantly for even cooking.
- The oil helps preserve the chili crunch and enhances flavor infusion.
- Store the finished chili onion crunch in the refrigerator and use within 2-3 weeks for best freshness.
- This versatile condiment pairs well with noodles, rice dishes, eggs, and grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
