Crispy chilli oil

Add a little bite to any meal with this versatile chilli oil, which delivers fragrance, heat and texture.

- DOMINIC SMITH

Whether you use a little or a lot, chilli oil is a sure-fire way to add intrigue to almost any dish, bringing heat, flavour and texture. While store-bought versions are a pantry essential, nothing beats the rich aroma that fills the kitchen as you fry golden shards of garlic and caramelise shallots until they’re sticky and sweet. Plus, you can customise the chilli factor to your own personal preference.

Step by step

1 Thinly slice 10 garlic cloves; combine in a medium heavy-based saucepan with 500ml olive oil. Place pan over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until garlic is light golden (10-12 minutes). Place a fine sieve over a heatproof bowl and strain oil (see note). Reserve oil and season garlic with fine salt. Set aside to cool.