Sep 09 2026
RestaurantsPizzeoli Wood Fired PizzaChili-kissed Garlic Knots Recipe

Chili-kissed Garlic Knots Recipe

Time2h
Serves6

Knots of Tied Dough + Garlic + Oregano + Salt + Pepper + Chili Oil Served with Marinara

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Ingredients

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Dough

Method

Dough

  1. 1

    Mix and autolyse

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm water (about 105–110°F / 40–43°C) and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms; the dough will be sticky. Cover and rest 10 minutes.

  2. 2

    Knead

    Add the remaining 1/2 cup flour gradually and knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for 6–8 minutes (or in a stand mixer with dough hook 4–5 minutes) until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. If dough is too sticky, sprinkle up to 2 tbsp more flour, a little at a time.

  3. 3

    First rise

    Lightly oil a bowl with olive oil, place the dough in it, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise in a warm draft-free spot until doubled, about 60–75 minutes.

  4. 4

    Shape knots

    Punch the dough down gently. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 12 equal pieces (about 1.6 oz / 45 g each). Roll each piece into a 10–12-inch rope. Tie each rope into a single overhand knot, tucking ends underneath to secure. Place knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet 1–2 inches apart.

  5. 5

    Second rise

    Cover the shaped knots loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let them rise 25–30 minutes until slightly puffy.

  6. 6

    Bake

    Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Optionally brush knots very lightly with olive oil. Bake in the center of the oven for 14–16 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack.

Chili-Garlic Topping

  1. 7

    Prepare topping

    While knots bake, melt the butter with the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook 45–60 seconds, stirring, until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat.

  2. 8

    Season

    Stir in red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Add 1 tablespoon chili oil and mix. Taste and adjust salt or chili to preference. Keep warm.

  3. 9

    Brush knots

    Working quickly while knots are still hot, brush each knot generously with the chili-garlic topping so the garlic pieces adhere. Reserve any leftover topping for serving.

Finishing & Serving

  1. 10

    Garnish

    Sprinkle the brushed knots with chopped parsley and, if using, grated Parmesan while the topping is still tacky so it sticks.

  2. 11

    Serve

    Arrange knots on a platter with a small bowl of warm marinara for dipping. Serve immediately. Leftovers can be reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to refresh.

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