If you're looking for a versatile condiment to take your meals and snacks to the next level, look no further than 2 tbsp (30 g) Spicy Chili Crisp! With each serving providing 210 calories, this delicious blend of chili oil, crispy garlic, and roasted onions can pack a punch of heat and flavor in any dish.

Not only does Spicy Chili Crisp offer a zesty addition to your favorite foods, it also has some nutritional benefits. Each serving contains 23% of the daily recommended value of fat and 0% of cholesterol, making it a guilt-free option for those watching their lipid intake. However, it is important to keep in mind the sodium and sugar levels per serving as well. With 220 mg of sodium and 1 g of sugar in each 30 g serving, moderation is key.

In this article, we'll dive deeper into what Spicy Chili Crisp is, how it can benefit your health, and some creative ways to use it in your cooking.

What is Spicy Chili Crisp?

Spicy Chili Crisp is a Chinese chili oil condiment made from sunflower oil, chili flakes, crispy garlic, and roasted onions. It has a unique texture due to the crunchy bits of garlic and onion that provide a depth of flavor and spice. This blend of ingredients typically has a bright red-orange color, and its heat level can vary depending on the brand and the amount used. It is a common condiment in Chinese cuisine and has gained popularity in Western dishes as well. While the ingredients may vary slightly from brand to brand, the key components remain constant to provide that umami flavor profile.

Calories and Serving Size

Each serving of Spicy Chili Crisp is 2 tbsp (30 g), which contains 210 calories. This serving size is relatively small and can be a great way to add flavor to your meals without significantly increasing your caloric intake. However, it's important to be mindful of portion control as the calories can add up quickly if you're not careful. If you're trying to cut back on calories or lose weight, consider using Spicy Chili Crisp as a condiment rather than a main ingredient in your dishes.

Fat and Cholesterol Content

Each serving of Spicy Chili Crisp contains 18 g of fat, which is approximately 28% of the daily recommended value. The fat in Spicy Chili Crisp comes from the sunflower oil used in the recipe. On the positive side, Spicy Chili Crisp does not contain cholesterol, which can be a concern for individuals with high blood lipid levels. This makes it a great option for those watching their cholesterol intake.

Sodium and Sugar Levels

One of the drawbacks of Spicy Chili Crisp is its high sodium content. Each serving contains 220 mg of sodium, which is approximately 9% of the daily recommended value. This can be a concern for individuals with high blood pressure or those looking to reduce their sodium intake. Spicy Chili Crisp also contains 1 g of sugar per serving. While this may not seem like a lot, every gram of sugar counts towards your daily total, especially if you're watching your sugar intake.

Spice and Flavor Profile

As its name suggests, Spicy Chili Crisp is all about the spice! The chili flakes infused in the oil create a fiery kick that can be tempered by the other ingredients. The crispy garlic and roasted onions provide a savory flavor and crunchy texture that elevates any dish. Together, these ingredients create a unique umami flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of cuisines and ingredients.

Uses in Food and Recipes

One of the best things about Spicy Chili Crisp is its versatility in the kitchen. It can be used as a condiment on its own or as an ingredient in recipes. Some popular uses of Spicy Chili Crisp include drizzling it over noodles, stir-fries, eggs, and pizza. It can also be used to make marinades, salad dressings, and dipping sauces. Experiment with incorporating Spicy Chili Crisp into your favorite dishes to give them a kick of spice and flavor!

Potential Health Benefits

While there are no specific health benefits associated with Spicy Chili Crisp itself, some of the ingredients used in the recipe have been linked to certain health benefits. For example, chili flakes have been shown to boost metabolism and reduce inflammation, while garlic has been linked to improved heart health and immune function. Onions are also a good source of antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties. While Spicy Chili Crisp should not be relied upon as a health food, it can be a delicious and nutrient-dense addition to your diet when consumed in moderation.

Risk of Overconsumption

While Spicy Chili Crisp can be a tasty addition to your meals, it's important to consume it in moderation. As mentioned before, each serving contains a significant amount of fat and sodium, so going overboard can increase your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and other health issues. It's also important to limit your intake if you have a sensitive stomach or are prone to heartburn, as the spicy nature of the condiment can exacerbate these conditions.

Comparison to Other Condiments

When it comes to condiments, there are many options to choose from. However, Spicy Chili Crisp stands out due to its unique flavor profile and versatility. Compared to other popular condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise, Spicy Chili Crisp has a lower sugar content and no cholesterol. It also adds a different set of flavors that can be a nice change of pace from the more traditional condiments.

Tips for Incorporating in Your Diet

If you're new to using Spicy Chili Crisp, start off by using a small amount and gradually increasing it to your desired level of heat. This will help your taste buds adjust to the spiciness and prevent overwhelming your palate. Consider using Spicy Chili Crisp as a replacement for other high-calorie or high-sodium condiments in your diet. For example, you can swap out mayonnaise for Spicy Chili Crisp in your sandwiches or use it as a dipping sauce for carrot sticks instead of ranch dressing. Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with new recipes and ingredients that incorporate Spicy Chili Crisp. The possibilities are endless!