Lao Gan Ma Laoganma Crispy Chilli in Oil 210 g (Pack of 1)

Product Information

When a new highway brought truck drivers to Guiyang, she gave them free jars of the sauce and they spread the word. It must not be reproduced in any way whatsoever without the prior consent of The Secret, nor without due acknowledgement. Lao Gan Ma deliberately places an extraordinary average-looking and old Chinese female on its product package, which conversely arouses strong curiosities of foreign consumers,” it says. Laoganma Crispy Chilli in Oil is a popular Chinese condiment made from red chilli pepper flakes, vegetable oil, soy sauce, and other seasonings.

Every product featured in The Strategist is rigorously selected by our (obsessive and unbiased) editors. Tao drives a limited edition Rolls-Royce with red rear view mirrors and a lucky number licence plate: “Gui A8888”. It adds a spicy, savoury, and slightly sweet flavour to any dish and is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their food. Perfect for adding to Chinese food and a range of other cuisines, Lao Gan Ma is the go-to option for those that love spicy Asian dishes. Lao Gan Ma Crispy Chilli oil has a hint of sweetness and a numbing sensation from the Sichuan peppercorn.While that doesn’t sound particularly appetizing, this is fantastic to eat on its own without having to add to a hot dish. I found it to be similar to the pickled chili sauce below but tomato-based version is easier to incorporate into dishes. Soybean Oil (40%), Chilli (35%), Fermented Soybean (Soybean, Water), Salt, Sichuan Red Peppercorns, Sugar, Flavour Enhancer (E621). Miranda Brown, professor of Chinese studies at the University of Michigan, who is writing a book on the history of Chinese food, says that in China, Lao Gan Ma’s popularity is partly due to Tao’s authenticity.

The name means “old godmother” and everyone who picks a jar up must face the stern look of a short-haired woman. Editor’s Note: The brand recommended by Merwin is not available in the UK, so we recommend this similar variety.

In 2021, as people looked for a way to make their home-cooked meals more exciting during pandemic lockdowns in the UK, online retailer Sous Chef said Lao Gan Ma sales were up 1,900%.