Why You’ll Love This

This delightful recipe was inspired by my time in Malaysia. It features dried chilies that lend a flavor quite similar to Huy Fong’s well-loved chili garlic sauce, a staple in many pantries! You can use this sauce in a wide range of Asian dishes just like you would with sriracha.

One great aspect of this recipe is that it allows you to use dried chilies, which are often easier to find than fresh red jalapeños. Since I’ve been experimenting with Szechuan dishes lately, I often have dried Chinese chilies in my pantry. It’s always a joy to use up what I have on hand! 😊

Additionally, this recipe lets you control the sweetness and sugar used, compared to many store-bought brands that are loaded with sugar. Plus, it’s free from oils! This sauce is easy to prepare and keeps well for months!

Ingredients for Chili Garlic Sauce

• 1 cup dried chilies (around 6-7 ounces)
• 1 head of garlic, peeled
• 2 shallots, peeled
• 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
• 2-4 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 4-6 tablespoons water (as needed)

How to Make Chili Garlic Sauce

1. Prepare the Chilies

Start by boiling about 2 cups of water in a pot. While waiting for it to boil, break apart the dried chilies and shake out the seeds, aiming for approximately 1 cup of chilies. Place them into a heat-proof bowl or pot, then pour the boiling water over them. Cover the bowl and let it sit for about 20-30 minutes until the chilies have softened, remembering to give them a stir halfway through.

2. Blend Everything Together

Once the chilies are soft, strain them and place them in a mini blender along with the peeled garlic, shallots, salt, and sugar. Add around 4-6 tablespoons of water to assist with blending. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and has a nice, creamy consistency.

3. Cook the Sauce

Transfer the blended chili mixture into a small saucepan. Cover and let it simmer gently over medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom. This step helps the flavors to meld beautifully.

4. Add the Vinegar

After simmering, stir in the vinegar and take a taste. Adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, sugar, or vinegar as needed for balance. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can spice it up by adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you want to boost the heat level.

5. Store Your Sauce

Finally, transfer your delicious chili garlic sauce into a clean jar and seal it with a lid. This sauce will keep well in your refrigerator for about 2-3 months, but I doubt it will last that long if you love spiciness!

Variations

• For extra depth of flavor: Consider adding some fish sauce.
• For a complex taste: Fresh ginger root can make a delightful addition.
• Try fresh chilies: You can use medium heat red jalapeños or red shishito peppers for a vibrant flavor!

Chef’s Tips

• Choose the Right Chilies: Medium-heat chilies like Chinese chili peppers or dried chile de árbol are perfect for this recipe. Be cautious with dried Thai chilies; they can be extremely hot!
• Handling Fresh Chilies: If using fresh chilies, be sure to wear gloves while removing the seeds to avoid any irritation!
• Blender Options: A mini blender works wonderfully for this small batch. However, a standard blender or a food processor can also do the trick, albeit with a larger batch.

Storage Tips

Store your chili garlic sauce in a sealed jar in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 months. For those looking to extend its life, consider adding a bit more vinegar.

Serving Suggestions

Chili garlic sauce is incredibly versatile! Use it as a condiment for various dishes, or incorporate it into your Asian-inspired recipes. It’s fantastic added to Portobello Mushroom Burgers, Thai Turkey Burgers, Soba Noodle Salad, Zen Noodle Bowl, or even Chicken Ramen Noodles. The options for using this sauce are practically endless!

FAQs

What’s the difference between sriracha and chili garlic sauce?

Sriracha typically has more vinegar, giving it a tangier flavor profile, whereas chili garlic sauce boasts a rich garlicky, smoky, and slightly sweet taste.

What is chili garlic sauce?

Chili garlic sauce is a flavorful condiment made from dried red chilies, garlic, salt, sugar, and vinegar, perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes.

Does chili garlic sauce go bad?

Like any condiment, it can spoil eventually. However, due to the vinegar content, it has a longer shelf life. If stored correctly in a sealed container, it can last up to three months in the fridge.

Can I make this sauce spicier?

Absolutely! You can increase the heat level by adding more chilies or a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes during the cooking process.

Can I use fresh ingredients instead of dried chilies?

Yes, fresh red jalapeños or shishito peppers can be used in place of dried chilies. Just make sure to adjust the quantity to match the flavor intensity you desire!