Chili oil is a popular condiment in Asian cuisine for its intense heat and unique flavor. But what if you’re without this classic ingredient when craving extra spice in your meals? From gochujang to black bean sauce, here are the 11 best substitutes to give your dishes a spicy flavor when you run out of chili oil.

Common uses of chili oil in cooking
Chili oil is a versatile condiment that enhances the flavor of various dishes. It’s commonly used in stir-frying to infuse vegetables, meats or noodles with a spicy kick and in marinades to tenderize proteins while adding heat.
Chili oil is also a popular dipping sauce ingredient. It pairs well with soy sauce and vinegar for appetizers like dumplings and egg rolls. Additionally, it can be mixed with sesame oil and vinegar to create zesty salad dressings for Asian-inspired salads. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Chili oil substitutes
Now, let’s discover the best substitutes to add that bold, spicy kick to your dishes without missing a beat.
Cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper is a versatile spice that can replace chili oil with its intense heat and vibrant red color. You can sprinkle cayenne pepper on your dishes, mix it with other ingredients like olive oil and even create a paste by combining it with water.
Chili flakes or red pepper flakes
Chili or red pepper flakes are pantry staples and make excellent substitutes. Simply sprinkle them over your meals to add some heat. You can also infuse them into vegetable oil for a closer texture to create a homemade chili oil alternative.
Chili powder
While chili powder and chili oil have different textures and flavor profiles, you can use chili powder as a substitute for chili oil in some recipes. However, since chili powder won’t provide the same oily texture, you may need to adjust the recipe accordingly. For example, heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the chili powder and stir well.
Chili powder is another quick fix to bring a spicy kick to your dishes. It’s readily available in most kitchens and can be used as a 1:1 replacement for chili oil.
Oils: Sesame oil, olive oil or vegetable oil
Sesame oil is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine, known for its nutty flavor. Mixing it with other seasonings, such as soy sauce and a pinch of cayenne pepper, can create a tasty alternative to chili oil.
Use chili oil as an infusion in other cooking oils. This can add spice to olive oil, sesame oil or any other oil used in your recipes.
Olive oil can also be a milder substitute for chili oil. Infuse it with garlic and red chili peppers for a similar flavor profile. This homemade chili oil will add depth of flavor to your dishes.
Finally, substituting vegetable oil for chili oil is a common and versatile choice, especially when you want to maintain the oil component in a recipe without the spiciness of chili oil. When you are ready to substitute, use an equal amount of vegetable oil as a 1:1 substitute for chili oil. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of chili oil, replace it with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
Plain vegetable oil can be a neutral substitute for chili oil when in a pinch. You can enhance its flavor by adding crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder or a dash of sesame oil. You can also infuse the vegetable oil with minced garlic and ginger to enhance the taste. Saute them gently in the vegetable oil over low heat until fragrant. This adds depth and complexity to your dish.
Another option is to infuse the vegetable oil with dried herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary or cumin. This not only adds flavor but also contributes aromatic notes to your dish.
Soy sauce
Here is the tricky one. Substituting soy sauce for chili oil won’t replicate the heat of chili oil, but it can add a savory and umami flavor to your dishes. You can simmer soy sauce in a saucepan to reduce it and create a glaze. And then, mix it with other spicy ingredients like cayenne pepper or hot sauce to make a flavorful, spicy oil. This concentrated sauce can be drizzled over vegetables, proteins or rice.
Hot sauce
Hot sauce, such as sriracha or Tabasco, can add heat and depth to your dishes. It’s a convenient alternative to chili oil and can be used in various cuisines. Like the soy sauce substitute, you can simmer hot sauce in a saucepan to reduce it and create a glaze. This concentrated sauce can reduce the intensity of the hot sauce.
Remember that the flavor profile of hot sauce may differ from chili oil, so consider the specific taste you want to achieve in your dish. Adjust the other seasonings and ingredients to balance the flavors according to your preferences.

Sambal oelek
Sambal oelek is a traditional Southeast Asian chili paste with a complex flavor profile. It’s an excellent choice for adding an intense heat level and depth of flavor to your dishes. To substitute the chili oil, you can mix sambal oelek with other ingredients like garlic, ginger and soy sauce to create a paste. Use this paste as a base for various dishes, adding depth and spice. Feel free to adjust the quantity of sambal oelek to achieve the desired level of spiciness.
Black bean sauce
Black bean sauce, often used in Chinese cuisine, offers a unique flavor. Substituting black bean sauce for chili oil can add a rich, umami flavor with a hint of saltiness to your dishes.
You can start with a 1:1 substitution ratio and adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences. You can saute minced garlic and ginger in a neutral oil before adding black bean sauce. This enhances the depth of flavor and complements the umami notes of the sauce.
You can also combine black bean sauce with soy sauce or oyster sauce to create a well-rounded flavor profile. This mixture can be used as a stir-fry sauce or as a base for noodle dishes. Remember to adjust the other seasonings to balance the flavors according to your preferences.
Korean chili paste or gochujang
Using Korean chili paste, also known as gochujang, as a substitute for chili oil can add a unique and flavorful twist to your dishes. Gochujang is a fermented red chili paste commonly used in Korean cuisine, and it brings a balance of heat, sweetness and umami. Gochujang is a Korean chili paste that packs a spicy punch. It’s perfect for adding a fiery kick to your favorite dishes and can be found at your local Asian market. You can start with a 1:1 substitution ratio. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.

Gochujang is a thick paste, so you might need to dilute it with a bit of water or broth to achieve a more liquid consistency, similar to chili oil. Gochujang’s unique combination of heat and sweetness can bring a distinctive and delicious element to your dishes, making it a versatile substitute for chili oil.
Fresh chilies
Substituting fresh chilies for chili oil can add a vibrant and spicy kick to your dishes. Many types of chili are available, such as jalapenos, Thai bird chilies, serranos or even milder varieties like Anaheim peppers. Fresh chilies are a great way to replace chili oil with a unique flavor profile. Simply mince them and mix with a neutral oil like grapeseed or canola.
You can finely chop or slice the fresh chilies, then saute the chopped fresh chilies in a neutral oil or mix chopped fresh chilies directly into sauces. Another option is to blend the fresh chilies into a paste using a food processor, mortar and pestle. Combine the paste with oil, salt and perhaps a touch of vinegar for a versatile chili paste. Fresh chilies offer a dynamic and immediate burst of heat, making them a fantastic substitute for chili oil in various recipes.
Store-bought chili oil
If you prefer the convenience of store-bought options, look for chili crisp, chili garlic oil or other spicy oils in your local grocery store. These products offer a wide range of spice levels and flavor profiles.
Remember, the best chili oil substitute for your dish may vary depending on the specific flavor profiles you want to achieve. Experiment with different ingredients to find the one that best complements your favorite dishes. Whether you’re looking for a milder option or exploring new flavors, these alternatives can spice up your meals.
Final thoughts
The versatility of chili oil substitutes, from infused oils and hot sauces to crushed red pepper, provides ample room for creativity in the kitchen. By understanding the nuances of each substitute and considering factors such as flavor, heat level and texture, you can try these alternatives in your favorite recipes.
Feel free to adjust the spice levels, mix and match different substitutes, and discover unique combinations that suit your taste. The absence of chili oil doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor; it opens the door to exciting substitutions that can elevate your cooking. So, roll up your sleeves and stock up on alternatives.
Yuan is a U.S.-based writer, world traveler, web developer and photographer behind the food blog Sassy Chopsticks. She loves to share various flavorful, authentic Chinese food and Asian-inspired recipes for everyday cooking.
This article originally appeared on Sassy Chopsticks.