Santai Borneo Black Chili Oil

TASTING NOTES FROM THE CURATOR

Santai is a local brand, and definitely one to watch out for. Their Borneo Black Chili Oil is inspired by kecap manis, the sweet aromatic soy sauce from Indonesia with a dark color and syrupy consistency.

This chili oil is vegan and gluten-free, and is a wonderful sweet-spicy mix of flavors. Bursting with umami, it’s great as an entry-level spice, perfect for those who prefer something much milder. It’s also a great way to introduce spice to kids! It’s not overwhelming at all, and has a sweetness that tempers out the heat.

PREPARATION AND PAIRINGS

Use the Santai Borneo Black Chili Oil on anything! It’s especially perfect on duck, chicken, dim sum, and lamb. If you want to be a little more adventurous, try a drizzle on some creamy vanilla ice cream.

IN HONOR OF A GREAT WOMAN

Santai was named after Crisanta “Santay” Sydiongco, the owner’s taima (great-grandmother). She came from Leyte, a Chinese Visayan woman, soft-spoken and always wearing a Filipiniana. She had a quiet strength to her, and raised successful children. The warmth she exuded is the reason Patrick De Veyra named his chili oils and sauces after her. Sauces, he believes, should be able to take you back to a comfortable time, to add a layer of magic, to bring you “home.”

Storage Instructions

Keep your chili oil in an airtight container. Store in a cool and dry place, like the pantry or a cupboard; it will last 2-3 months. Refrigerate after opening, and consume within 6 months.