Homemade Chilli Oil Recipe (Better Than Store-Bought!) - Pinch 0f Sugar

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat tolerance)
• 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns (optional but recommended for that signature numbing heat)
• 1 tsp paprika (for color – use smoked for extra depth)
• 1 small piece of star anise (optional)
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger (or 1 tsp fresh grated)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh minced garlic)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1 cup neutral oil (like canola, vegetable, grapeseed, or peanut oil)