The “Ridiculously Good” Momofuku Pantry Staple That Gives My Favorite Dishes an Extra Kick
A few years ago, I never would have thought that I’d consider myself a fan of spice, but I’ve come to learn that it’s actually an acquired taste. I started off with jalapeño chips — Hal’s kettle chips are my ultimate favorite — and over time, I’ve started mixing in hot sauces and other punchy condiments into my day-to-day dishes. Now, I can’t imagine my meals without it; many foods taste bland to me now unless they have a slight kick. It’s the ultimate hack from taking a quick and easy meal from blah to mouthwatering.
I’ve waxed poetic about my fair share of spicy condiments (see Exhibit A and Exhibit B), but Momofuku’s ridiculously good Chili Crunch holds a special place in my heart. Hot sauces are great and all, but the texture and flavor profile that this chili crisp gives all of my favorite dishes is next-level, so I find myself reaching for it more often. I’ve been stocking it in my kitchen for months, and in that time, it’s become an ingredient that I rely on for eggs, noodles, and more. Keep reading to find out why I recommend it to everyone!
What Is Momofuku’s Chili Crunch?
Originally a NYC-based restaurant that has since expanded its offerings to an online store, Momofuku is known primarily for its delicious ramen noodles that many of us on The Kitchn staff love. Chef and founder David Chang and the Momofuku Goods team have developed a range of toppings that we swear by, too, including its Savory Seasoned Salt and Korean BBQ sauces.
The Chili Crunch, which is a spicy-crunchy chili oil, is the brand’s OG pantry staple. Taking inspiration from Chinese chili crisp and textured Mexican salsas, Momofuku has put a decade into developing the formula in its restaurant, adjusting the spice, crunch, and umami amounts until it was perfect. It incorporates three types of chilis (Pulla, Chili de Arbol, and Japones) as well as garlic and shallots, all of which are chef-approved for quality. There are also sesame seeds and a bit of coconut sugar for slight sweetness.
Why I Love the Momofuku Chili Crunch
I’ve loved the Chili Crunch as long as I’ve loved Momofuku’s noodles — it’s included in the Bestseller Pack bundle, which was my first foray into the brand. Naturally, I started off by drizzling the oil on the more tame noodle flavors like Soy & Scallion. I quickly discovered that a little goes a long way, with half a spoonful kicking the entire dish up a notch with smokiness and earthiness. (That’s why I’m able to make a single jar last so long.) It’s bold without being so overpowering that you can’t detect the flavors underneath it. Further, I like changing up the ratio of oil to crisps whenever I’m in the mood for more or less texture. The sizes of the crispy pieces are perfect so that they complement rather than distract from the flavor.
I began branching out, sprinkling it on some of my go-to eats like rice, cheese pizza, and grilled chicken. One of my favorite usages is putting it on eggs. If the texture of eggs sometimes irks you like it does me, then trust me: The crunchiness of this topping is a game-changer. I also have stepped outside of my comfort zone and paired it with vanilla ice cream; my jaw dropped when I noticed how well the sweet and savory balanced each other out.
I know that $13 might seem a little steep for a condiment, but considering how long I’ve been able to stretch out a jar — and how it elevates pretty much any food it touches — Momofuku’s Chili Crunch is certainly worth it. You can even stock up on the noodles while you’re at it since the Bestseller Pack is on sale!
Buy: Momofuku Chili Crunch, $13
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