Oriental Oil

Directions

1. 1
   Put about half the oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
2. 2
   Heat it, stirring constantly, over medium heat, until the spices start to sizzle and the oil bubbles a bit.
3. 3
   If you have a candy thermometer, heat the oil to 140F Be very careful not to burn it.
4. 4
   Sesame oil burns at a very low temperature.
5. 5
   Cook for about 5 minutes.
6. 6
   The oil should be very aromatic at this point.
7. 7
   Remove the pan from heat, transfer the oil and flavorings to a bowl, and allow to cool.
8. 8
   Taste the oil to make sure that it hasn't burned, and that it tastes strongly of the spices and herbs.
9. 9
   If it doesn't, add more flavorings, and heat again.
10. 10
    Add the remaining plain oil to the flavored oil, strain through a cheesecloth if necessary, put the oil in bottles and store them in the refrigerator.
11. 11
    It will keep up to 2 months (if made with olive oil, 1 month).