Cover Image: Chili Crisp

Chili Crisp

Pub Date:   |   Archive Date:

Member Reviews

"Chili Crisp" is a flavor-packed journey into the world of a beloved condiment that transforms ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. As a fan of chili crisp, this book exceeded my expectations with its diverse and inventive recipes, making it a must-have for both enthusiasts and newcomers to the spicy life journey.

James Park, a chili crisp devotee, approaches his subject with infectious passion, creating a collection of over 50 recipes that showcase the versatility of this magical ingredient. The book seamlessly blends tradition and creativity, offering everything from savory morning oats with jammy eggs and pork floss to fiery spaghetti and meatballs for lunch. The Chili Crisp Bulgogi Deopbap and Spicy, Lemony Charred Broccolini make for a delectable dinner, followed by the innovative Spiced Sweet Potato Basque Cheesecake for dessert – air fryer bonus included!

What sets this book apart is its accessibility. The no-recipe recipes and build-your-own chili crisp formula empower readers to experiment and create their own versions. As a chili crisp fan, I appreciate the thoughtfulness that went into offering pairing suggestions and flavor guides, elevating the experience for both novice and seasoned cooks.

"Chili Crisp" is more than just a cookbook; it's a celebration of a beloved ingredient that has the power to elevate any meal. Perfect for chili crisp enthusiasts, spicy food lovers, and those seeking creative weeknight meal ideas, this book is a delightful addition to any cookbook collection, standing alongside other culinary favorites. Thanks to James Park for delivering a flavorful love letter to chili crisp that will surely become a cherished kitchen companion over the years!

Was this review helpful?

When I die, bury me in chili crisp.

Before the pandemic, my partner and I made Sohla El-Waylly's recipe (and totally goofed it up - we blended ALL the spices together... so it was different, but still good). During the pandemic, I bought a zine about chili crisp that included a cookie recipe. From that moment on, we've had a "what can't chili crisp do?" mentality in my household.

I am happy to say that this book just reinforced that feeling! The recipes were easy to follow and the two I made were delicious.

Was this review helpful?

If you're craving some spice in your life this is a great addition to your cookbook collection. Great ideas for spicing up every meal!

Was this review helpful?

This one blew my mind! Not only had I never even thought about the possibility of making my own chili crisp, there are so many different ways to use it too! This book even gives you ideas to customize it yourself!

Was this review helpful?

This is a delightful niche cookbook. James Park has created such a wide range of recipes to try from breakfast to dessert. I'm especially intrigued by the savory breakfast entries such as Spicy Breakfast Casserole with Tater Tots and Savory Morning Oats with Jammy Eggs.

I especially love that he's given some classic recipes a spicy twist like Chili Crisp Bucatini Carbonara, Beef Short Ribs Ragu and Fiery Spaghetti and Meatballs.

I cannot wait to make the very nutty chili crisp so we can try the tahini swirl brownies.

Thank you to Chronicle Books and NetGalley for the advance reader copy of this book. I am required by federal law to disclose this.

Was this review helpful?

hili Crisp is a perfect accessory cookbook of recipes collected, developed, and curated by James Park. Released 29th Aug 2023 by Chronicle Books, it's 176 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats.

Lovers of Asian cuisine will already be familiar with the ubiquitous jars of chili crisp, the oil with flakes of delicious crispy pepper, which grace every table in their favorite restaurants. There are an infinite number of variations to be found, and the author has collected 50 favorites here for a wide variety of different uses.

The recipes are arranged thematically: essential chili crisps, all day breakfast & midday snacks, noodles & carbs, meat seafood & more, side dishes, and desserts (!!). Recipes are provided with an ingredient list in bullet form in a sidebar, serving size and info, and followed by step-by-step cooking instructions. Ingredient measures are given in imperial (American) units followed by metric measures in parentheses (yay!). Nutritional information is not included.

About half the recipes are accompanied by one or more full color photos. Serving suggestions are attractive and appropriate. Some of the ingredients and specialty spices will require access to a large international food store or online sources.

Four and a half stars. Wonderfully quirky, creative, and delicious recipes.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Was this review helpful?

As a lifelong fan of chili peppers and chili oil, I was intrigued to review Chili Crisp by James Park. This book's innovative recipes showcase the myriad possibilities of this versatile ingredient.

Including numerous color photographs, an introduction to the various ingredients used, and a heartfelt introduction to the author's journey into chili crisp, Chili Crisp is an engaging, user-friendly book. While reading, I realized that I was not actually all that interested in chili crisp myself--I typically prefer chilies in other sauces and preparations--but if I knew someone who was a chili crisp fan, I would wholeheartedly recommend this book.

Innovative uses of chili crisp in this book include all courses, even dessert. There are so many ways to use it that I had never thought of before! On top of that, the written parts show a detailed, in-depth knowledge of and familiarity with chili crisp as an ingredient, including its history, how it's made, and variations on the general concept. With this book, I feel anyone can achieve their own chili crisp goals.

Was this review helpful?

This includes recipes for a few varieties of chili crisps along with recipes including the chili crisp. It ranges from spicy appetizers, snacks and even desserts.

Was this review helpful?

Chilli Crisp is an excellent book of recipes and tips for created your own oil crisps. I can honestly say I’d never heard of it before the book. However, I am not converted and will always be a forever fan. What a delightful eye opener.

Was this review helpful?

The Garlicky onion crunch is amazing and so easy to make. We had some this morning on scrambled eggs and it really took that up a notch. I would use the least amount of red pepper as we are spice wimps but I will make this over and over again. The maple chili roasted carrots with spicy yogurt sauce is just fabulous! A must make. The chili crisps alone are worth the price of this book. You will find so many ways to use them.

Was this review helpful?

As a lover of chili crisp, I very much enjoyed this cookbook. Not only does it have multiple variations of chili crisp to try, but also page after page of mouthwatering things to make that incorporate chili crisp!

Was this review helpful?

If you aren't already a fan of spicy, garlicky chili crisp, you will be after reading this delightful cookbook. The condiment, available in more and more stores every day, is addictively spicy and goes well with everything from eggs to rice to vegetables of all kinds. James Park puts together a useful and creative collection that showcases the best of chili crisp, though it isn't for the faint of heart. Measurements are provided in imperial and metric units, the recipes are straightforward and clear, and most importantly, they don't require hours of prep time. Recipes include Korean classics enhanced by the chili crisp, like Bulgogi Deopbap and Dobu Jorim, pastas with bite like Chili Crisp Bucatini Carbonara, and even desserts. Park also includes recipes for making homemade chili crisp, though most will find buying it simpler. If you like spicy food in creative ways, this is the perfect choice for you, and one I keep returning to for inspiration.

Was this review helpful?

Worth its weight in chili crisp. Actually, scratch that. It’s worth far more than its weight. There are so many variations and ways to customize it but then the book has incredible ideas with what to do with it. Cheese bread with chili crisp was so much more than the sum of its parts. A decadent new family fave. I also added it to burrata although I didn’t follow thru yet on the salad which sounds delicious.

Most of alll- chili crisp is hard to find near me. When I do find it - it is both annoyingly pricey and frustratingly small. My family has a limited taste palate so having a condiment like this let’s me have the spice I want and they get the blandness they cherish. I tried making it before and it was okay/good.

Lastly I knew I recognized the name James Park. Turns out he has written for my two go-to cooking sites Food 52 and The Kitchn where he just published a recipe for his chili crisp fried eggs, a recipe i bookmarked but hadn’t gotten around to try. Going to remedy that soon.

Was this review helpful?

Chili crisp oil is one of my favorite condiments, it makes everything taste better. There are so many different recipes, each with slightly different highlights. This book gives you three different main chili crisp oil recipes and a list of alternative ingredients to adjust them to your taste. I’ve made 6 different batches already I adjusted the peppers, the added spices and tried several meal recipes included. The sweet potato basque cheesecake is jaw dropping fantastic! Yes there are many recipes including deserts. The book is filled with beautiful photos and an interesting story about the author. This book is a keeper.

Was this review helpful?

This is a gorgeous cookbook!

I am new to chili crisp, so I made a half batch of the base recipe for chili crisp in the book, which made a little under 2 cups. The author actually recommends doubling the recipe in the book, which would make nearly 8 cups. After my family tried it, they agreed that I should have doubled it. :D I call that success!

I'm excited to try some of the other chili crisp recipes, and the cookbook then shows lots of ideas for how to utilize the condiment in a range of dishes.

Its a visually beautiful cookbook as well. It would be a great addition to a well-stocked cookbook shelf!

Thank you to Chronicle books and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this book!

Was this review helpful?

I absolutely love chili crisp and when I saw this cookbook on NetGalley, I requested it immediately. It did not disappoint. Absolutely delicious. I will definitely be purchasing this in its hardcover edition for my cookbook collection. Highly recommend for all levels of cooks, Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC for my honest opinion,

Was this review helpful?

This is a great resource. I live in a small town and can now enjoy chili crisp! These recipes are so unique. I can’t wait to work through all the rest of the recipes. These are also going to be great gifts for the holidays - my family will love them!

Was this review helpful?

Chili Crisp is a collection of recipes, introductory info, and beautiful pictures with chili crisp, which is an essential component of Chinese cuisine. The author, however, is Korean, and the recipes in this book are a fusion of his culinary experiences. Many are based on Korean foods, but there are a few based on American classics as well. If you enjoy Asian cuisines or hot & spicy food, you should get a copy of this unique cookbook!

Thanks Netgalley for the opportunity to review this eARC in exchange for my honest review on the book!

Was this review helpful?

Who knew that the term “chili crisp” refers to a spicy oil based condiment that has dozens – maybe hundreds of uses, not only in recipes, but also added to finished dishes. James Park has included many dishes as well as ways to use this condiment, and those who read and use is excellent cookbook, Chili Crisp: 50+ Recipes to Satisfy Your Spicy, Crunchy, Garlicky Cravings, will find themselves in a love affair with chili crisp. The recipes include appetizers, soups, salads, main dishes, and believe it or not, desserts.

Many of the recipes are unique and innovative; all are easy to follow, and most call for easy-to-find ingredients. Since there are dozens of brands and flavors of chili crisp, readers can get them easily in Asian grocery stores or online. You can also make your own.

The recipes are written in the traditional manner with comments, suggestions, tips, vignettes, and information at the beginning of each recipe followed by a list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions. Both beginning and advanced cooks will have no trouble following them and creating picture perfect dishes. And there are beautiful, professional photographs of almost every recipe which make it tempting to prepare almost every dish.

All told, this cookbook will open a whole new food world for those who like a little spice in their food. The recipes are appealing and delicious. This a fun cookbook, and is one that will be used over and over.

Special thanks to NetGalley for supplying a review copy of this book.

Was this review helpful?

FIVE STARS!
I admit it. I have a problem. A chili crisp problem. I must have no less than two backup bottles of Lao Gan Ma in my pantry at all times. I love it with rice, eggs, vegetables, pizza, avocado toast… even ice cream. So you can imagine my delight at finding out that James Park has written a cookbook devoted to one of my favorite condiments. It has something for every meal from breakfast through desserts -- some I’ve already made on my own, but also some incredibly creative new ideas, so many of which I’m looking forward to trying. What I’m most intrigued by, however, are the recipes for making my own version of chili crisp.

As a cookbook junkie (and an amateur cook), there are some elements I look for in cookbooks, and Mr. Park has hit them all. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, the photography is large, colorful, and enticing, and as someone who loves to read a cookbook, I always appreciate when an author includes history and information about the culture background of the food (as well as their own).

I am so grateful to James Park, Chronicle Books, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review Chili Crisp. I’m looking forward to adding this one to my cookbook shelf.

Was this review helpful?