Lao Gan Ma: The Addictive Chili Crisp!

Imagine you're enjoying a delicious bowl of rice with chicken. Or, perhaps, you've prepared a tasty bowl of ramen soup. Something's missing; could it be Lao Gan Ma Chili Crisp? This yummy spicy condiment is the perfect addition to any Asian-inspired dish. It adds the perfect amount of heat with each spoonful you add.

This spicy, crispy oil sauce is recognizable by the pictured woman on the front of each bottle. This woman is known as Tao Huabi, the "Old Godmother" of China. She created the Lao Gan Ma products, including fried chili in oil, chili crisp, and other variations.

While Tao Huabi is not the creator of chili crisp, she is credited with making it a popular condiment in the US.

Not sure what this chili crisp is? Read on for more details.

Lao Gan Ma Chili Crisp Vs. Chili Oil?

Lao Gan Ma is not to be confused with chili oil. While similar, you can expect more chili flakes in each spoonful than standard chili oil. Another main difference is the ingredients found in chili crisp.

Chili oil is a simple mixture of chili flakes or chili peppers and vegetable oil. Chili crisp includes additional seasoning like salt, soy sauce, and even fish sauce or another sauce on occasion.

What Does Lao Gan Ma Taste Like?

This Lao Gan Ma hot chili sauce is salty, spicy, savory, and crunchy. It's unlike any other condiment you'll find at your nearest Asian grocery store. The crispy texture sets it apart from other condiments, making it a unique staple in many kitchens.

Why Is Lao Gan Ma So Popular?

This tasty condiment is so popular because of its consistency and versatile flavor. Chili crisp as a cooking oil, taste enhancer, and topping makes it a fantastic kitchen staple. Not only is it delicious, but it's also great for any savory dishes you may have that need an extra pop of flavor.

It’s also very affordable, making it easy for anyone and everyone to keep a jar in their kitchen.

How Do You Eat Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Sauce?

As mentioned, you can use this incredible chili crisp in any dish you'd like! Some common uses include pan-frying noodles, flavoring soup, and even adding some heat to scrambled eggs in the morning. Depending on how much you enjoy Lao Gan Ma, you may even want to add it to toast as a snack!

Enjoying Chili Crisp At Home

Still not sure what to do with chili crisp? Grab a jar of Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp, and try out these snack ideas at home!

Nissin Hong Kong Style Instant Ramen: Sesame Oil

Soup is a great way to ease into using chili crisp. Try this Nissin Hong Kong Style Instant Ramen: Sesame Oil that provides a slightly sweet, nutty flavor. Adding the chili crisp gives it a delicious texture and some extra heat.

Koloko Pea Cracker: Spicy

If you’re a fan of spicy, you’ll love this combination! Koloko Pea Cracker: Spicy are chips made from peas with a garlicky heat. Adding chili crisp as a topping or dipping your chips into it makes for a fiery snack.

Morita Ginger Pork Sauce

Pick your favorite cut of pork and pan-fry it with chili crisp for a spicy flavor. Then, add Morita Ginger Pork Sauce for a tangy, gingery flavor. This combination is the perfect flavor pairing, providing a sweet, hot pork dish.

Surasang Seasoned Seaweed Sheets (4-pack)

Keep it simple with this snack idea. Salty, umami-flavored Surasang Seasoned Seaweed Sheets (4-pack) are the perfect vessels for getting Lao Gan Ma Chili Crisp into your mouth. They’re crunchy, delicious, and are easy to load up with as much chili crisp as you want.

Find chili crisp, chili oil, and all your Asian grocery staples at Bokksu Market! Bokksu makes it easy to order groceries online for convenient delivery right to your door. Whether you’re looking for Chinese grocery items, Japanese, or Korean options, Bokksu has it all!

By Krystina Quintana