China moon chili-lemon oil

2 Cups

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
cupCorn or Peanut oil
2tablespoonsJapanese Sesame Oil
¼cupDried red chili flakes
1tablespoonSzechwan Brown Peppercorns
1largeClove garlic: smash and peel
2tablespoonsFresh ginger; fine julienned
cupScallion rings;green+white
2Lemongrass stalks;see note
4mediumsLemon;just the minced zest

Directions

: Notes: Lemongrass, 2 stalks pounded then cut crosswise into finger lengths, 3 inches. Szechwan Peppercorns should be just the blossoms, not the seeds, available in Asian markets.

: #1 Combine all the ingredients except for the lemon zest in a heavy, non-aluminum 1½ quart saucepan. Bring to 223 F degrees on a deep fry thermometer over moderately low heat and let bubble for 15 minutes.

: #2 Remove the pan from the heat and let stand for 5 minutes, then stir in the lemon zest and let stand overnight or until cool.

: #3 Remove and discard the lemongrass. Scrape the oil and seasonings into an impeccably clean container.