How Many Calories Are in Bamboo Shoots in Chili Oil?

November 30, 2025 •

4 min read

While raw bamboo shoots contain as few as 27 calories per 100 grams, the calorie count for bamboo shoots in chili oil increases dramatically due to the high-fat content of the oil used in preparation. The final number depends heavily on the specific brand or recipe, making it crucial to understand the different factors at play.

Quick Summary

Calories in chili oil bamboo shoots vary widely, with commercial brands ranging from approximately 60 to over 300 kcal per 100g, largely dictated by the amount of fat absorbed from the oil. The method of preparation and portion size are key determinants of the overall calorie total.

Key Points

Calorie Source: The calorie content of bamboo shoots in chili oil comes primarily from the oil, not the vegetable itself.
High Variation: Store-bought brands can have wildly different calorie counts, from under 100 kcal to over 300 kcal per 100g, depending on the oil percentage.
Homemade Control: Making your own chili bamboo shoots gives you complete control over the amount and type of oil, allowing for a much lower-calorie dish.
Nutritional Benefits: Bamboo shoots offer significant dietary fiber, promoting digestion and heart health, which can still be reaped in a lighter version.
Serving Size Matters: For calorie management, pay close attention to portion size, as even a small increase can add significant fat and calories.

The Calorie Calculation: Decoding the Numbers

Determining the exact calorie count for bamboo shoots in chili oil is challenging because recipes and commercial products differ significantly. The simple truth is that while the shoots themselves are low in calories, fat contains 9 calories per gram, making the oil the primary source of calories. A product with a higher oil-to-bamboo ratio will inevitably be more calorie-dense.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: A Calorie Comparison

The most significant difference in calorie content often lies between making the dish at home and purchasing a preserved, store-bought version. With a homemade recipe, you control the type and amount of oil, whereas commercial products often contain a substantial amount for preservation and flavor. The table below illustrates the wide range of nutritional values you can expect.


Product / Method	Serving Size	Calories (approx.)	Fat	Carbs	Protein
JFC International	23g	60 kcal	6g	2g	1g
Imperial Brand	30g	80 kcal	8g	1g	1g
Super Asian	30g (2 tbsp)	99 kcal	10g	1g	0.5g
Pickled in Chili Oil	100g	304 kcal	31.7g	3.3g	1.3g
Homemade Lighter Version	71 kcal (per recipe serving)	7g	1g	1g

This table highlights how calories can range from relatively moderate to quite high, largely depending on the oil content. For example, a 100g serving of some pickled brands can exceed 300 calories, demonstrating how the oil can transform a low-calorie vegetable into a high-fat dish.

Factors Influencing Calorie and Nutrition

List of Factors Affecting the Final Calorie Count

Amount of chili oil: The single most influential factor. More oil means a higher fat content and a proportional increase in calories.
Type of oil: The calorie count per gram of fat is constant, but the type of oil (e.g., canola, sesame, vegetable) can affect the overall flavor profile. Some oils also have a different flavor intensity, meaning you might use less of one type than another.
Other ingredients: Many recipes include other ingredients like soy sauce, sugar, or sesame seeds, which add to the total calorie count.
Preparation method: Homemade versions allow for precise control. With store-bought products, the oil-to-solid ratio can vary slightly between batches or jars.
Draining: For canned versions, thoroughly draining the excess oil before serving can help reduce the calorie and fat intake.

Calculating Calories for Homemade Bamboo Shoots in Chili Oil

For those who prefer a homemade approach, estimating the calorie count is more straightforward. Begin with the calories in the drained bamboo shoots, which are very low. Then, add the calories from the oil you use. One tablespoon of chili oil typically contains around 100 to 130 calories. By tracking the number of tablespoons you use, you can get a fairly accurate estimate. Other seasonings, like sugar, should also be factored in, but their contribution is usually minor compared to the oil.

Nutritional Value Beyond the Calories

Despite the added oil, bamboo shoots still offer nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can help lower cholesterol. A 1-cup serving of cooked bamboo shoots provides a good amount of fiber and is also a source of important minerals like potassium and copper. By reducing the oil, you can create a spicy, flavorful dish that capitalizes on these benefits without the excessive calorie load. The fiber in bamboo shoots also promotes feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.

Creating a Lighter, Healthier Version

To enjoy the flavor of chili bamboo shoots while keeping the calorie count low, consider these strategies:

Use less oil: The most obvious step. Reduce the amount of oil in your recipe or opt for a store-bought version that is lower in fat.
Drain thoroughly: If using a jarred product, let the bamboo shoots drain well to remove as much oil as possible.
Infuse flavor without excess oil: You can create a chili-garlic paste with minimal oil and more vinegar or water to carry the flavor. Use a small amount of high-quality, fragrant oil like toasted sesame oil for maximum flavor impact with less volume.
Blot the shoots: After cooking, you can lightly blot the bamboo shoots with a paper towel to remove surface oil before mixing with a lower-fat dressing.

Conclusion: Navigating Calorie Content

The calorie content of bamboo shoots in chili oil is not fixed; it is a direct consequence of the amount of oil used. While commercial versions can be calorie-dense, particularly those that are pickled, homemade versions offer complete control over the fat and seasoning. By being mindful of serving sizes and oil content, you can enjoy this flavorful dish and its fiber benefits while keeping your dietary goals on track.

Visit this resource for an example of a healthier chili bamboo shoot recipe. This approach allows you to balance flavor and nutrition, transforming a potentially high-calorie snack into a lighter, healthier side dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, raw and cooked bamboo shoots are very healthy. They are low in calories and fat and high in dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and weight management.

Fresh bamboo shoots are generally lower in sodium and retain more of their original nutrients, though canned versions can still be a good source of fiber. The canning process, especially in chili oil, adds significant calories and sodium.

Yes, but with caution. It is best to choose a low-fat store-bought option or, preferably, make a homemade version where you can control the amount of chili oil used. Portion control is also key to managing calorie intake.

To reduce calories, drain the bamboo shoots thoroughly to remove excess oil. You can also rinse them lightly, although this might affect the flavor. Another option is to mix the chili bamboo shoots with other low-calorie ingredients like fresh vegetables.

The macronutrient breakdown is typically high in fat, moderate in carbohydrates, and low in protein. For example, some products show over 80% of calories coming from fat.

Chili oil is high in fat and therefore high in calories. While it is used for flavor, adding large amounts can significantly increase the calorie count of any dish.

The base oil used in different chili oils might vary slightly in fat composition, but all oils contain the same number of calories per gram (9 kcal). Any variations in calorie count are negligible compared to the total amount used.