This Chuannan Spicy King Chili Oil came from the same Asian market where we purchased the chili oil crisp version. Close attention must be paid as, at first glance, one might miss the differences in the Chinese characters on the label. Otherwise the jars look remarkably similar.
Translating the label, the vertical ribbon says "Authentic Sichuan flavor". The oval logo and top line both read "Chuān Nán" or "Southern Sichuan", while the large characters read "Fragrant Spicy King". The line below that says "spicy oil" or "chili oil", which is also the main line on the Chuannan Chili Oil Crisp label. Not confusing at all. Some online vendors nickname this version "Spicy King". We'll call it that, too, as it literally says that.
Main Flavor Elements
- Chili
- Onion
- Peanut
- Sichuan peppercorn
- Sesame
Snapshot
- Base oil(s): rapeseed (canola)
- Solids to oil ratio: High
- Flavor Enhancer: MSG, IMP,GMP
- Potential allergens: soy, sesame, peanut
- Storage: Refrigerate after opening
Our Impressions
- Heat level: Incendiary
- Texture: Chewy pepper
- Saltiness: Moderately high
This has sesame seeds, which the Chuannan Chili Oil Crisp lacks. The ratio of solids to oil is so high, however, that they don't all float to the top like some others. The heat level of each product is about the same, although this one might be a little hotter. The peanut is chopped very fine here, so its crunch is not as pronounced. The sweetness from the sugar is more forward in this version, as well.
We'd make the same assessment of this one as we did the other: it might not be an everyday or every situation go-to, but when you want the heat, it's got it.
Ingredients
Rapeseed oil (non-GMO)(60%), chili pepper, soybean, peanut, salt, sugar, onion, MSG, disodium 5'-ribonucleotide, sesame, Sichuan peppercorn, flavoring, spices
More Information
Brand: Sichuan Weihong Food Co, Ltd. / Chuannan
Style: Chili crisp
Price paid: $5.69 / 9.3oz.
Country of Origin: China
Manufacturer website:
Social media: