This spicy-hot oil is a mainstay of Chinese cookery.
1/2 cup peanut, corn or canola oil
20 dried red chili peppers
1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
Pinch salt
In a small, heavy saucepan heat the oil until hot over medium-high heat; add the peppers, reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until peppers turn a dark brown color. Remove from heat and add the cumin and salt, mixing well.
Pour the oil through a strainer lined with a paper towel or a paper coffee filter into a bowl. Discard the solids. Transfer the oil to a small, sterilized jar and cover with a lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Makes 1/2 cup.