Japanese Fried Chicken Wings

Japanese Fried Chicken Wings Recipe - Authentic & Flavorful

Region / culture: Asia, Japan, Northeast Asia | Preparation time: 4 hours | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Japanese Fried Chicken Wings are a delicious and crispy dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sake or sherry, soy sauce, and ginger root creates a flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken wings with a unique taste. Coated in cornstarch and fried to perfection, these wings are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Japanese Fried Chicken Wings, also known as "Tebasaki," originated in Nagoya, Japan. This dish has become a popular izakaya (Japanese pub) snack and is often enjoyed with a cold beer or sake. The marinade used in this recipe is a traditional Japanese combination of flavors that has been passed down through generations.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) chicken wings
0.33 cup sake or dry sherry
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp grated ginger root
0.25 cup cornstarch
4 thin lemon slices, optional
cooking oil

How to prepare

Cut the chicken wings at the joints and discard the wing tips.
In a bowl, combine sake or sherry, soy sauce, and ginger root to make a marinade. Place the chicken in a plastic bag and set the bag in a bowl.
Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag. Close the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight, turning occasionally.
Drain the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Coat the chicken wings with cornstarch.
Fry 3 or 4 pieces at a time in deep hot fat (365°F) for about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Place the chicken on a serving plate. Serve hot and plain over rice, but garnish with lemon slices if desired.

Variations

Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Use different marinades such as teriyaki or garlic soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
Try baking the chicken wings instead of frying for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken wings for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Coat the chicken wings in cornstarch before frying to create a crispy and crunchy texture.

- Fry the chicken wings in small batches to ensure even cooking and prevent overcrowding in the fryer.

- Serve the wings hot and fresh for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Japanese Fried Chicken Wings hot and plain over rice, garnished with lemon slices for a refreshing touch.

Cooking Techniques

Marinate the chicken wings for several hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

- Coat the chicken wings in cornstarch before frying to create a crispy texture.

- Fry the chicken wings in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute sake or sherry with white wine or rice vinegar.

- Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Replace cornstarch with potato starch or rice flour for a lighter coating.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the chicken wings in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to fry. You can also coat the wings in cornstarch ahead of time for easy frying.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Japanese Fried Chicken Wings on a platter with lemon slices and a side of steamed rice. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Japanese Fried Chicken Wings with a cold beer, sake, or green tea for a traditional Japanese meal. Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until heated through and crispy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Japanese Fried Chicken Wings contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Japanese Fried Chicken Wings contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Japanese Fried Chicken Wings contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Japanese Fried Chicken Wings contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Japanese Fried Chicken Wings are a good source of iron, vitamin B6, and niacin.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Japanese Fried Chicken Wings are a delicious and protein-rich dish that is perfect for a snack or meal. They are high in fats and calories, so it is best to enjoy them in moderation.

Summary

Japanese Fried Chicken Wings are a delicious and crispy dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a flavorful marinade and a crispy coating, these wings are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve hot and plain over rice for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day and I was wandering through a bustling market in Tokyo, Japan. The aroma of sizzling meats and savory spices filled the air, drawing me towards a small food stall tucked away in a corner.

As I approached, I noticed a group of locals gathered around the stall, eagerly watching as the chef expertly prepared a batch of golden-brown chicken wings. The wings were coated in a light, crispy batter and seasoned with a tantalizing blend of spices. I couldn't resist the urge to try them for myself.

I watched closely as the chef worked his magic, effortlessly tossing the wings in a hot pan of oil until they were perfectly cooked. He then sprinkled them with a generous amount of salt and pepper before serving them up on a paper plate with a side of tangy dipping sauce.

I took my first bite and was immediately hooked. The chicken was tender and juicy, with a crispy outer layer that practically melted in my mouth. The combination of flavors was unlike anything I had ever tasted before – sweet, salty, and savory all at once.

I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. I approached the chef and asked him if he would be willing to share his recipe with me. To my surprise, he graciously agreed, handing over a handwritten copy of the ingredients and instructions.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time tweaking and perfecting it to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its delicious flavors and crispy texture.

To make Japanese Fried Chicken Wings, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 pounds of chicken wings

- 1 cup of all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon of salt

- 1 teaspoon of pepper

- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon of onion powder

- 1 teaspoon of paprika

- Vegetable oil for frying

To begin, rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Toss the chicken wings in the flour mixture until they are evenly coated.

Heat a few inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer until it reaches 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully add the chicken wings to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the wings for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Remove the wings from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle them with a little extra salt and pepper while they are still hot. Serve the wings with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. It is a true taste of Japan, with its bold flavors and crispy texture. I am grateful to the kind chef who shared this recipe with me all those years ago, and I will continue to cherish it for years to come. Bon appétit!