We’ve tried dozens of chili oils here at Chili Oil Gang, but every once in a while, one surprises us in ways we did not expect. Enter Chili Oil Baron—a small-batch chili oil that left us questioning, “Is this even chili oil… or is it something completely new?”
From the very first whiff, we knew this wasn’t going to be your average chili oil. It’s packed with layers of unexpected flavors, from a warming cinnamon-like aroma to a bright citrusy finish—all wrapped in a savory, umami-forward base. And just when you think you’ve got it figured out, the Sichuan peppercorns sneak in with their signature numbing tingle.
But is this the right chili oil for you? Let’s break it down.
Who Will Love Chili Oil Baron?
This chili oil is for the adventurous eater—someone who doesn’t just want heat, but depth, complexity, and something truly different. If you:
✅ Love Sichuan flavors – The peppercorns in this will give you that classic tingly, numbing sensation that builds as you eat.
✅ Want something beyond just heat – The layers of spice, citrus, and warm aromatics make every bite a flavor journey.
✅ Prefer less oil, more crunch – It’s got a chunkier texture, with bold chili bits and whole spices rather than a heavy oil base.
✅ Avoid seed oils – Unlike a lot of chili oils that use canola or sunflower oil, this one is made with avocado oil, giving it a smooth, clean finish.
✅ Like a little surprise in your food – One second it’s savory, the next it’s bright and citrusy, and suddenly—bam! Sichuan heat creeps up.
Is This Chili Oil for You?
🔹 “I like my chili oil simple—just heat and oil.”
• If you’re looking for straight-up chili crisp without additional layers of flavor, this might not be your top pick. It’s got a spiced, aromatic complexity that makes it more of an experience than just a condiment.
🔹 “I’m not sure about cinnamon in my chili oil…”
• We get it. It sounds weird, but trust us—it works. The warm notes don’t overpower; instead, they round out the heat and create an almost smoky effect.
🔹 “Is it actually spicy?”
• It’s not the spiciest chili oil we’ve tried, but it builds over time—thanks to the Sichuan peppercorns. If you’re a heat-seeker, this won’t blow your face off, but it’ll keep you coming back for more. We say it’s between 6 to 7 out of 10 on the spice scale.
How We’d Use It
This isn’t your basic chili oil—it’s a bold, flavor-packed condiment that works best when it’s highlighted rather than hidden. Here’s where it shines:
🍜 Drizzled over noodles – The combination of chili, citrus, and numbing spice elevates any noodle dish instantly.
🥟 With dumplings – The layers of heat and umami take dumplings to another level.
🍚 On rice – A little goes a long way! The chunky bits add texture and depth to plain rice.
🍲 In soups and stews – The Sichuan heat adds complexity without overpowering the dish.
🥑 As a dip – Mixed with soy sauce or even a little honey, this makes an incredible dipping sauce for veggies, tofu, or grilled meats.
We also had it on our garlic noodles, and it was a perfect addition.
Final Verdict: Where Does It Belong on the Tier List?
For us, Chili Oil Baron earns a solid A+ tier. It’s not just a chili oil—it’s a whole experience. If you want something unique, complex, and packed with personality, this is a must-try.
However, if you’re looking for straightforward chili crisp with just oil and heat, this one might not be for you.
