Cayenne Oil Recipe for Pain Relief and Health Benefits

Originally posted on April 17, 2020 @ 6:32 pm

If you love adding a fiery kick to your dishes, then cayenne oil is an absolute kitchen must-have. This versatile infused oil packs the heat and the health benefits of cayenne peppers into a smooth, flavorful condiment that can elevate everything from salads to marinades.

Making cayenne oil at home is surprisingly simple, and the result is a vibrant, spicy oil that will last for months. Whether you’re a fan of spicy cooking or are looking for a natural way to boost your metabolism and circulation, this recipe is for you.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through a straightforward cayenne oil recipe, share tips for perfecting your infusion, and offer ideas on how to use this fiery oil in your daily cooking. Plus, if you’re curious about other easy homemade infusions and vegan recipes, be sure to check out some of my favorite recipes like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious and Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide.

Now, let’s turn up the heat and get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cayenne oil is more than just a spicy addition to your pantry—it’s a powerhouse ingredient that combines fiery flavor with great versatility.

  • Easy to Make: Requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
  • Long Shelf Life: Properly stored, this oil can last for several months.
  • Health Benefits: Cayenne peppers are known for boosting metabolism, aiding digestion, and promoting circulation.
  • Flavor Boost: Adds depth and heat to salads, pastas, grilled veggies, and even homemade dips.
  • Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne for a mild warmth or a blazing fire.

Whether you want to spice up your cooking or explore natural remedies, this cayenne oil recipe has something for everyone.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of extra virgin olive oil (or any neutral oil like grapeseed or sunflower oil)
  • 2 tablespoons of dried cayenne pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
  • 1 clove of garlic, peeled and lightly crushed (optional)
  • 1 small dried chili (such as a whole dried cayenne or arbol chili, optional for added heat)

Equipment

  • Small saucepan or double boiler
  • Heatproof glass jar or bottle with airtight lid (preferably dark glass)
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cup

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: Measure out the oil and cayenne flakes. If using garlic and whole dried chili, have them ready.
  2. Warm the oil: Pour the olive oil into a small saucepan and gently warm it over low heat. The goal is to infuse the oil without cooking or burning it. Keep the temperature around 140°F (60°C) if you have a kitchen thermometer.
  3. Add the spices: Stir in the dried cayenne flakes, smoked paprika, garlic clove, and whole dried chili into the warm oil.
  4. Simmer gently: Keep the oil on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The oil will take on the vibrant red color and spicy aroma.
  5. Cool and infuse: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the oil cool completely while the spices continue to infuse.
  6. Strain the oil: Once cooled, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into your glass jar or bottle to remove all solids.
  7. Seal and store: Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place. Your cayenne oil will be ready to use immediately but will taste even better after a few days of resting.

Tips & Variations

“For a fruitier flavor, try using avocado oil as your base. If you want a stronger heat, add crushed fresh cayenne or habanero peppers instead of dried flakes.

Always use clean, dry utensils to avoid contamination and extend shelf life.”

  • Experiment with oils: Olive oil is classic, but you can use sesame oil for an Asian twist or coconut oil for tropical notes.
  • Add herbs: Infuse rosemary, thyme, or oregano with your cayenne oil for complex flavor layers.
  • Adjust spice levels: If you prefer mild heat, reduce cayenne flakes to 1 tablespoon or omit the whole chili.
  • Storage: Use a dark glass bottle to protect the oil from light, which can degrade flavor and nutrients.
  • Test before use: Start with small amounts in your dishes to gauge heat level and add more as desired.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per 1 tbsp (15ml)
Calories 120 kcal
Total Fat 14 g
Saturated Fat 2 g
Monounsaturated Fat 10 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.5 g
Vitamin E 1.5 mg (8% DV)
Capsaicin (from cayenne) Trace amounts, varies

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary depending on the exact ingredients and quantities used. Cayenne peppers add minimal calories but contribute bioactive compounds like capsaicin.

Serving Suggestions

Cayenne oil adds a spicy and flavorful punch to many dishes. Here are some delicious ways to use it:

Conclusion

Making your own cayenne oil is a rewarding process that transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant, spicy elixir perfect for a variety of culinary uses. This homemade infusion lets you control the heat and flavor intensity while enjoying the many health benefits of cayenne peppers.

From drizzling it over your favorite meals to incorporating it into marinades and dips, cayenne oil adds warmth and depth that store-bought versions often lack.

With just a handful of ingredients and some patience, you can create a shelf-stable, flavorful oil that will brighten your kitchen creations for months to come. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different oils and additional herbs to make this recipe truly your own.

For more inspiration on easy, delicious home cooking, check out other recipes like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or dive into comforting soups with the All Day Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Comfort Meals.

Enjoy your spicy creation and happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Cayenne Oil Recipe

Description: A spicy infused oil perfect for adding heat to dishes or massages. This easy recipe uses dried cayenne peppers and oil for a potent homemade infusion.

Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 1 cup

Ingredients

  • 1 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons dried cayenne peppers
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 garlic clove, smashed
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat.
  2. Add dried cayenne peppers, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, paprika, oregano, and peppercorns.
  3. Simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Remove from heat and let the oil cool completely.
  5. Strain the oil through a fine mesh sieve into a clean jar.
  6. Store in a cool, dark place and use within 1 month.

Nutrition: Calories: 120 | Protein: 0g | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 1g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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