This Ma La Oil, affectionately named “China Moon,” is a vibrant infusion that captures the essence of Sichuan cuisine. By gently heating corn or peanut oil with sesame oil, scallions, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, and red chile flakes, you create a luxurious condiment with a complex flavor profile. The oil delivers a signature “ma la” sensation&# 226;ÂÂa tingling numbness from the peppercorns balanced by the heat of the chiles. It is incredibly versatile, perfect for drizzling over steamed fish, tossing with noodles, adding depth to salad dressings, or brushing onto roasted meats. This recipe yields a small but potent batch that keeps well, allowing you to elevate everyday dishes with a professional touch of lush, aromatic spice.
Infused Oils – Ma La Oil “China Moon”
Description
This Ma La Oil, affectionately named "China Moon," is a vibrant infusion that captures the essence of Sichuan cuisine. By gently heating corn or peanut oil with sesame oil, scallions, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, and red chile flakes, you create a luxurious condiment with a complex flavor profile. The oil delivers a signature "ma la" sensation&# 226;ÂÂa tingling numbness from the peppercorns balanced by the heat of the chiles. It is incredibly versatile, perfect for drizzling over steamed fish, tossing with noodles, adding depth to salad dressings, or brushing onto roasted meats. This recipe yields a small but potent batch that keeps well, allowing you to elevate everyday dishes with a professional touch of lush, aromatic spice.Ingredients
Directions
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Cut the scallions into rings.
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Smash the ginger coins slightly to release their juices.
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Combine all ingredients (oils, scallions, ginger, peppercorns, chile flakes, and salt) in a heavy, non-aluminum 1 1/2 quart saucepan.
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Rest a deep-fry thermometer on the rim of the pot to monitor temperature.
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Over moderately low heat, bring the mixture to a bubbly 225 degrees F (107ðC), stirring occasionally.
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Let simmer for 15 minutes, checking frequently to ensure the temperature does not rise above 225 degrees F (107ðC).
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Remove from the heat and let stand until completely cool, or overnight.
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Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container without pressing the solids; discard the solids.
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Store the oil in an impeccably clean glass jar at cool room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1060.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 120.0g185%
- Saturated Fat 18.0g90%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 0.0mg0%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 0.0g0%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Because of the large proportion of sesame oil, this is a rich and potent oil. A little bit goes a long way.
Usage Ideas: Add a spoonful to salad dressings, brush on the plate before steaming fish, brush on the skin of a just-smoked or roasted bird, drizzle on tossed pasta just before serving, or brush on bread loaves before baking.
Storage: Keep in a clean glass jar at cool room temperature. Ensure the jar is impeccably clean to prevent spoilage.
Safety: Monitor the oil temperature carefully. Do not let it exceed 225 degrees F to avoid burning the spices and creating off-flavors.
