Born worlds apart, Gyoho and Ari blended their cultures and the local island flavors of Okinawa to create their own chili oil. Gyoho was born in China and Airi grew up in Japan. In Gyoho’s hometown in China, chili oil is a staple. In fact, each family makes their own from scratch following guarded secret recipes. After moving to Ishigaki in Okinawa and starting their own backyard garden, Airi challenged Gyoho to use local island ingredients to make his beloved chili oil. To make this slightly sweet, slightly spicy oil, Gyoho combined a variety of local spices and seasonings, including local sweet and spicy chilis, turmeric, salt from the sea of Ishigaki, Okinawan black sugar, garlic, sesame seeds, and black beans. You can use it anywhere you would use hot sauce.
