Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like how easy this appetizer is to pull together in just minutes. The crispy garlic adds crunch, the chili oil brings heat, and the cilantro and green onions brighten everything up. It’s versatile, customizable to any spice level, and always a hit when I put it on the table.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup high-quality chili oil
1/4 cup crispy garlic chips
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup sliced green onions
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
I start by gathering all my ingredients so everything is ready.
In a small saucepan over low heat, I warm the chili oil with salt and pepper, stirring gently for about 3 minutes until fragrant (but not boiling).
I fold in the crispy garlic chips and stir to coat them in the oil.
Next, I add the cilantro and green onions, mixing gently to combine.
I transfer the mixture to a serving dish, drizzle on a little extra chili oil if I want, and finish with toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and flavorful appetizer option.
Variations
Sometimes I add crushed peanuts or cashews for extra crunch. If I want more depth, I stir in a splash of soy sauce or rice vinegar. For a smoky flavor, I sprinkle in a pinch of smoked paprika or use a chili oil with Sichuan peppercorns.
Storage/Reheating
I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh the flavors, I stir it well before serving and, if needed, warm it slightly on the stove over low heat.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge until serving.
What should I serve with this appetizer?
I like serving it with bread, rice crackers, dumplings, or even fresh vegetables for dipping.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, I use a mild chili oil for less heat or a spicier one if I want more kick.
Can I make my own chili oil?
Yes, homemade chili oil works great and lets me control the flavors.
Do I need to use fresh cilantro?
I prefer fresh cilantro, but parsley or Thai basil also work as substitutes.
Can I add protein to this appetizer?
Yes, I sometimes toss it with shrimp, tofu, or shredded chicken for a more filling dish.
How do I keep the garlic chips crispy?
I add them right before serving so they stay crunchy.
Can I make this appetizer nut-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally nut-free, but I avoid adding nuts in the variations if serving to guests with allergies.
Can I serve this warm or cold?
Yes, I enjoy it both ways—slightly warm for a richer flavor or cold for a refreshing bite.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, I simply double or triple the amounts and mix everything in a larger bowl.
Conclusion
This bloody chili crisp appetizer is one of those quick, flavorful recipes that I love making for gatherings. The combination of crunchy garlic, aromatic chili oil, and fresh herbs creates a bold dish that always impresses. It’s simple, customizable, and the perfect way to add a little spice to any meal or celebration.
Bloody Chili Crisp Appetizer
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This bloody chili crisp appetizer is a bold, flavorful starter made with chili oil, garlic chips, fresh herbs, and sesame seeds. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for serving with bread, crackers, or dumplings.
Ingredients
1/2 cup high-quality chili oil
1/4 cup crispy garlic chips
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup sliced green onions
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and prepare them in advance.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the chili oil with salt and pepper for about 3 minutes until fragrant, without boiling.
- Fold in the garlic chips, stirring gently to coat.
- Add cilantro and green onions, mixing gently to combine.
- Transfer to a serving dish, drizzle with extra chili oil if desired, and top with toasted sesame seeds.
Notes
Add crushed peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.
Stir in soy sauce or rice vinegar for more depth.
Use smoked paprika or Sichuan chili oil for a smoky flavor.
Best served with bread, crackers, dumplings, or fresh vegetables.
Add garlic chips just before serving to keep them crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
