Schezwan Chilli Oil Recipe

• STEP 1.Cut the whole dried chilies in half, using a pair of scissors.

• STEP 2.Place the oil, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, cut dried chillies and sichuan peppercorns in a saucepan and heat on medium-low heat.

• STEP 3.When the oil comes to a simmer, lower the heat right down and simmer for 15 minutes.

• STEP 4.While waiting, place the chilli flakes, chilli powder and salt into a bowl large enough to take the oil and set aside.

• STEP 5.At the end of the 15 minutes, by which time the oil has had a chance to absorb all the aroma.

• STEP 6.Turn off the heat and leave to rest for 5 minutes on the hot hob.

step 7

• STEP 7.Using a metal strainer (as the oil will still be hot), strain the oil into the bowl of chilli and salt mix and stir well with a metal or wooden spoon.

• STEP 8.Transfer to a sterile jar and when cooled to room temperature, store in the fridge for up to 6 months.