This Five Flavor Oil, affectionately named “China Moon,” is a vibrant condiment that infuses neutral oil with the bold aromatics of scallions, ginger, chile flakes, and Sichuan peppercorns. While the title suggests a Japanese influence, the flavor profile is deeply rooted in Chinese culinary traditions, offering a complex balance of heat, citrus, and numbing spice. The oil is simmered gently to extract maximum flavor without burning the spices, resulting in a smooth, aromatic liquid that enhances stir-fries, noodles, dipping sauces, and roasted vegetables. It adds a professional touch to home cooking with minimal effort. Store it in a clean jar for a pantry staple that brings restaurant-quality depth to simple weeknight meals. This versatile oil captures the essence of five distinct flavors in every drop.
Five Flavor Oil “China Moon”
Description
This Five Flavor Oil, affectionately named "China Moon," is a vibrant condiment that infuses neutral oil with the bold aromatics of scallions, ginger, chile flakes, and Sichuan peppercorns. While the title suggests a Japanese influence, the flavor profile is deeply rooted in Chinese culinary traditions, offering a complex balance of heat, citrus, and numbing spice. The oil is simmered gently to extract maximum flavor without burning the spices, resulting in a smooth, aromatic liquid that enhances stir-fries, noodles, dipping sauces, and roasted vegetables. It adds a professional touch to home cooking with minimal effort. Store it in a clean jar for a pantry staple that brings restaurant-quality depth to simple weeknight meals. This versatile oil captures the essence of five distinct flavors in every drop.Ingredients
Directions
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Cut the scallions into thick rings.
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Slice the ginger into quarter-size coins and smash them slightly with the side of a knife.
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Combine the corn or peanut oil, sesame oil, scallions, ginger, chile flakes, and Sichuan peppercorns in a heavy, non-aluminum saucepan (1 to 1.5 quart capacity).
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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&# 194;°F (107ðC), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Maintain the temperature at 225ðF (107ðC) and let the mixture simmer gently for 15 minutes, ensuring the temperature does not rise significantly to avoid burning the spices.
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Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand until completely cool, or leave it overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
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Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container without pressing on the solids, then discard the solids.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 723.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 81.9g126%
- Saturated Fat 12.3g62%
- 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
Storage: Store the infused oil in an impeccably clean glass jar at cool room temperature. For best quality, use within 1-2 months. Ensure the jar is completely dry before adding the oil to prevent spoilage.
Safety: Always monitor the oil temperature carefully. Do not exceed 225ðF (107ðC) as higher temperatures can burn the spices, resulting in a bitter taste.
Variations: You can adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chile flakes. For a brighter flavor, add a strip of lemon zest during the simmering process, as mentioned in the original source, though it is not listed in the primary ingredients.
Ingredient Note: Peanut oil is recommended for its high smoke point and nutty flavor, which complements the spices well. Corn oil provides a more neutral base.
