Chili Oil

• 1½ cups oil

• 5 star anise

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 2 bay leaves

• 3 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns

• ¾ cup crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 - 1½ teaspoons salt

Heat the oil, star anise, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, and Sichuan peppercorns in a small saucepan over medium high heat. When the oil starts to bubble slightly, turn the heat down to medium or low heat. The ideal heat should be about 225 to 250 degrees F so as not to burn the oil and spices. Caution that the oil and spices can burn really easily, so it's best to get a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.Let the oil cook for 30 minutes like this.When the oil is done cooking, the seeds and pods should be darker in color, but not blackened (that means they burned, which results in subpar chili oil). Let the oil cool for 5 minutes if it is too hot - the temperature should still be 225 to 250 degrees F. In a separate heat-proof bowl, measure out the crushed red pepper flakes and salt.Remove the aromatics from the oil using a slotted spoon or fine mesh strainer. Slowly pour the oil over the chili flakes, and stir well. When completely cooled, transfer to a jar, and store in the refrigerator.