Sauces and toppings

Spicy Oil

⏱ 15 min👤 4 pp★★☆☆☆

Spicy Oil, a preparation that embodies the essence of Italian culinary tradition, finds its strength in fresh red chili peppers, the undisputed stars of this sauce with a bold character. Their spiciness, which can vary greatly depending on the variety and season, is a fundamental element that gives this condiment a daring and vibrant flavor. The preparation technique is surprisingly simple but requires attention: the chilies are sliced into rounds and immersed in a mixture of white wine vinegar and water, a solution that not only enhances their taste but also preserves their freshness. After a day of resting, the result is an aromatic oil, perfect for flavoring dishes of all kinds. This spicy sauce is particularly loved in Lombardy, where it is often used to accompany meat dishes or to add a lively note to salads and bruschetta. It is not uncommon to find it on the table during family dinners or festive lunches, where each guest can personalize their dish with a touch of spiciness. The versatility of Spicy Oil makes it an ideal condiment even for an aperitif among friends, where a simple crostino can transform into an unforgettable tasting experience. Although there are regional variations, this recipe represents one of the most genuine and straightforward interpretations, capable of bringing a pinch of liveliness to every dish. With its intense aroma and bold flavor, Spicy Oil is an invitation to explore the richness of Italian cuisine, making every meal an opportunity to surprise and delight the palate.

Ingredients

Nutritional values 180 kcal / serving

Protein
0.2g
Carbohydrates
2g
Fat
20g
Fiber
0.5g

* approximate values per serving

Information
15 minutes Total time
Serves 4 persons
★★☆☆☆ Medium difficulty

Preparation

Take some fresh red hot chili peppers of any size, taste the fresh chili to see if it is truly spicy, slice them into rounds no thicker than one centimeter, place them in a dish and cover them with not too strong vinegar; if necessary, add a bit of water. Cover them with a plate so that they are well submerged in the vinegar, and let everything sit for 1 day, maximum 1 and a half. Drain the vinegar from the peppers and let them dry on a cloth for 24 hours, after which fill the jars to just below the rim, adding the best extra virgin olive oil you have until the jars are full. After about 3 months, you can enjoy the best spicy oil you've ever tasted. It is recommended not to wait more than 6 months before consuming the peppers. It is suggested to use the peppers and oil on: bruschetta, pasta, roasts, salads.

Tips
If you want to achieve a truly flavorful spicy oil, choose fresh and hot chili peppers, and make sure they are well covered with vinegar during the resting period to enhance their flavor.
Trivia
Chili pepper is native to the Americas and was introduced to Europe after the discovery of the New World, quickly becoming a staple ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine.