Sichuan Chili Oil Wontons

The intense heat and rich umami of these Sichuan Chili Oil Wontons make them one of the most beloved Chinese comfort dishes. Juicy pork filling is folded into delicate wonton wrappers, then boiled to tender perfection and coated in a garlicky, smoky chili oil sauce that brings just the right amount of numbing heat. Every bite is a fiery explosion of flavor, made complete with crunchy peanuts and fragrant herbs on top.

Whether you’re looking to recreate a street food favorite or impress guests with authentic Sichuan flavors, these wontons hit the mark. They’re surprisingly easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time—making them ideal for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or a spicy late-night craving.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Wontons:

• 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped scallions

• 1 tablespoon finely minced ginger

• 30-35 wonton wrappers

For the Chili Oil Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons Chinese chili oil (with sediment)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon black vinegar

• 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced

• 1/2 tablespoon sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorn powder

• 1 tablespoon hot water

• Optional: crushed peanuts, chopped scallions, cilantro for garnish

Directions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, sugar, white pepper, scallions, and ginger. Stir in one direction until well combined and sticky.

2. Place about 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Fold and seal with water, pressing out any air.

3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook wontons in batches for 4-5 minutes until they float and the filling is cooked through.

4. While the wontons cook, whisk together the chili oil, soy sauce, black vinegar, garlic, sugar, Sichuan peppercorn, and hot water in a bowl.

5. Once cooked, remove the wontons with a slotted spoon, drain, and place in a bowl. Drizzle with the chili oil sauce.

6. Garnish with chopped scallions, cilantro, or crushed peanuts if desired. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Irresistible Allure of Sichuan Chili Oil Wontons

Sichuan Chili Oil Wontons, also known as Hong You Chao Shou (红油抄手) in Chinese, are a quintessential street food and home-cooked comfort dish originating from the Sichuan province of China. What makes this dish so iconic isn’t just the spicy punch it delivers—though that’s a big part of it—but its balance of textures, flavors, and culinary heritage. These wontons are soft yet satisfyingly chewy, filled with juicy, seasoned pork and bathed in a flavorful chili oil sauce that’s as fragrant as it is spicy.

Often served as a starter in Sichuan restaurants or as a hearty snack in homes, these wontons are all about indulgence. They highlight the regional love for mala—that complex combination of heat and numbing sensation unique to Sichuan cuisine thanks to the generous use of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns.

The Culinary Origins of a Sichuan Favorite

The Sichuan province is world-famous for its spicy food, and this dish is one of the best examples of how flavor complexity goes far beyond just heat. While Chinese dumplings and wontons are widespread across the country, what sets Sichuan-style wontons apart is the sauce—an exquisite blend of chili oil, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, and peppercorns.

Historically, chao shou means “crossed hands,” a reference to the traditional folding method of the wonton. This dish has been a staple in Sichuan households for generations, often reserved for special occasions or family gatherings. Over time, it has traveled far beyond its regional origins, gaining popularity across China and globally, particularly in areas where authentic Chinese cuisine thrives.

Why Sichuan Chili Oil Wontons Stand Out

What truly makes these wontons stand out is the chili oil. Unlike store-bought varieties, homemade chili oil captures layers of flavor—earthy, smoky, floral, and spicy all at once. When poured over tender, freshly boiled wontons, it clings to the wrappers, delivering intense bursts of flavor with every bite. The pork filling, usually seasoned with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and rice wine, becomes incredibly savory and juicy after cooking, complementing the sharpness and fire of the sauce.

The combination is dynamic. There’s the initial heat, followed by umami-rich savoriness, and finally, a gentle tingle from the Sichuan peppercorns. Garnishes like chopped scallions, crushed peanuts, or cilantro only deepen the experience, adding freshness and crunch to the richness of the sauce.

Tips for Making Perfect Wontons

The process of making wontons might seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually quite approachable with a bit of practice. One tip is to always mix the pork filling until it becomes slightly sticky—this helps it bind together better and stay juicy after cooking. Another helpful practice is to seal the wrappers well using a bit of water, ensuring no air pockets are left inside, which can cause the wontons to burst while boiling.

Another key element is cooking the wontons in gently boiling water. Too harsh a boil can tear the wrappers. And while pre-made wonton wrappers save time, those who want a fully homemade experience can make wrappers from scratch with just flour and water.

Making the Perfect Chili Oil

Crafting the chili oil is an art in itself. Toasting spices like star anise, cinnamon, bay leaves, and Sichuan peppercorns in hot oil before pouring it over crushed chili flakes is the traditional technique. Garlic, ginger, and even black cardamom can be added to enhance the complexity. The oil should be poured at the right temperature—not too hot, or it’ll burn the spices; not too cold, or the flavors won’t bloom.

Letting the chili oil sit for a few days intensifies the flavor, making it more aromatic and well-rounded. While it’s used for these wontons, this chili oil is so versatile, it can be spooned over noodles, dumplings, fried rice, or even pizza for a spicy Asian twist.

Variations and Dietary Considerations

One of the beauties of Sichuan Chili Oil Wontons is their adaptability. While pork is traditional, you can substitute it with ground chicken, shrimp, turkey, or even plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist. Tofu crumbles or a blend of mushrooms and vegetables can make for a delicious meatless alternative that still soaks up all the spicy goodness of the sauce.

For those following a gluten-free diet, gluten-free wonton wrappers can be used, although they can be more delicate and require careful handling. Adjusting the soy sauce to a tamari or coconut aminos version can also help make this dish allergen-friendly.

The heat level can be easily modified. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the chili oil or opt for a mild version. You can also boost sweetness in the sauce to balance the fire. For those who live for spice, feel free to add fresh chili slices or an extra scoop of Sichuan pepper powder for that signature numbing effect.

Serving Suggestions

Sichuan Chili Oil Wontons are often served as an appetizer, but they can easily shine as a main course when paired with a bowl of jasmine rice, cold cucumber salad, or a simple stir-fried vegetable dish. Their bold flavors also make them ideal as party food—serve them on a platter with toothpicks for an unforgettable finger food option.

They also reheat surprisingly well. If you’re prepping ahead, cook the wontons and keep them in a lightly oiled container to prevent sticking. Heat the sauce separately and pour it fresh over the warmed wontons to maintain flavor and texture.

Cultural and Global Appeal

As more people around the world become fans of regional Chinese cooking, Sichuan Chili Oil Wontons have earned their place in the global culinary spotlight. They’re featured on trendy menus, street food festivals, and viral food blogs alike. Beyond their taste, what draws people in is the sensory experience—they sizzle, tingle, and delight, offering a true taste of Sichuan that transports you with every bite.

Home cooks love them for their relative simplicity and high reward, while foodies appreciate their authenticity. And thanks to social media, the visual appeal of those glossy red wontons has made them an internet sensation. They’re an eye-catching, flavor-packed dish that turns any meal into an event.

Conclusion

Sichuan Chili Oil Wontons are more than just a spicy treat—they’re a celebration of bold flavor, culinary craftsmanship, and cultural tradition. Whether you’re new to Sichuan food or already a fan, this dish is a must-try. It delivers comfort, excitement, and satisfaction in every single bite.

Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or even solo indulgence, these wontons are endlessly rewarding to make and even more enjoyable to eat. If you’re craving a dish that packs heat, soul, and a touch of nostalgia, look no further than this fiery classic from the heart of Sichuan.