Step 1 Heat a wok over medium heat until hot. Add the oil, then the garlic and onion, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and beginning to brown. Add the chiles and continue to stir-fry until the chiles are softened and everything is well-browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in a tablespoon of chile powder to taste for added heat, if desired. Remove from heat and place in a large mortar. Pound with a pestle until the mixture is reduced to a paste, 10 to 15 minutes. The paste can also be made using a food processor or blender, but the flavor is best using a mortar and pestle. Set the paste aside.