This crunchy savory Trader Joes Crunchy Chili Onion Recipe is made with dried minced onion, garlic, and olive oil, and ready in 10 minutes. The hot oil sizzles as it hits the dried aromatics, releasing an incredible roasted fragrance. I love keeping a jar of this to spoon over eggs.
What Makes This Version Different
Making your own chili crisp at home means you control the heat level and the quality of the oil. I used to buy multiple jars a month before realizing how simple it was to recreate in my own kitchen.
The biggest mistake I made at first was burning the dried garlic. Heating the oil gently and removing it from the heat before adding the aromatics prevents a bitter taste.
Jump to RecipeTrader Joes Crunchy Chili Onion Recipe Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup dried minced onion
- 2 tablespoons dried minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
How To Make Trader Joes Crunchy Chili Onion Recipe
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a heat-proof glass jar or bowl, mix the dried onion, dried garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and smoked paprika.
- Heat the oil: Pour the olive oil into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat for about 3 to 4 minutes until it reaches 250°F.
- Pour and sizzle: Carefully pour the warm olive oil over the dried mixture, stirring gently as it sizzles and foams.
- Cool and store: Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the bits to crisp up.
Recipe Tips
- Watch the temperature: Do not let the oil smoke, as boiling oil will instantly burn the dried garlic and turn it bitter.
- Use dried aromatics: Fresh garlic and onion contain water and will spoil quickly, so stick to dehydrated versions for longevity.
- Let it rest: The flavor is much better the next day after the spices have fully infused into the oil.
What To Serve With Crunchy Chili Onion
This chili crisp is incredible spooned over fried eggs, avocado toast, or a warm bowl of ramen. It also works beautifully as a quick marinade for roasted vegetables or tossed with freshly cooked pasta.
How To Store
Keep the jar sealed in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month. Bring it to room temperature for a few minutes before using if the olive oil solidifies.
FAQs
Can I use a different oil?
Yes, neutral oils like avocado or canola oil work perfectly if you prefer less olive flavor.
Why is my chili onion bitter?
The oil was likely too hot when poured over the dried ingredients, which burns the garlic and leaves a bitter aftertaste.
Is this very spicy?
It has a moderate kick. You can easily reduce the crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder version.
Nutrition
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 2g
- Protein: 0g
Trader Joes Crunchy Chili Onion Recipe
8
servings5
minutes5
minutes10
minutesTrader Joes Crunchy Chili Onion Recipe mixes crunchy dried garlic, minced onion, and red pepper flakes in just 10 minutes. This savory condiment adds the perfect texture and mild heat to your favorite morning eggs or weekend noodle dishes.
Ingredients
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup dried minced onion
2 tablespoons dried minced garlic
1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Directions
- 1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a heat-proof glass jar or bowl, mix the dried onion, dried garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and smoked paprika.
- 2. Heat the oil: Pour the olive oil into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat for about 3 to 4 minutes until it reaches 250°F.
- 3. Pour and sizzle: Carefully pour the warm olive oil over the dried mixture, stirring gently as it sizzles and foams.
- 4. Cool and store: Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the bits to crisp up.