Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs

Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs Recipe from Vietnam

Region / culture: Vietnam | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or any time you're craving some spicy and tangy flavors. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and chile peppers creates a mouthwatering marinade that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

History

The origins of Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs can be traced back to Southeast Asia, where bold and spicy flavors are a staple in many traditional dishes. The marinade used in this recipe is inspired by the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, which often incorporates ingredients like garlic, lemon grass, and chile peppers.

Ingredients

4 chicken legs, preferably from corn-fed chickens
1 tbsp nuoc mam sauce or light soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp sugar

Marinade

salt
2 tbsp vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, crushed
2 tsp salt
4 green onions, finely chopped
freshly ground black pepper
1 stalk lemon grass, finely chopped
2 lemons, cut in quarters
2 red or green chile peppers

How to prepare

Prepare the chicken legs.
Boil the oil and add garlic, green onions, and lemon grass.
Add chile, nuoc mam, sugar, and salt.
Once the marinade is ready, pour it over the chicken legs.

Variations

For a milder version, reduce the amount of chile peppers in the marinade.
Add a splash of lime juice for a citrusy twist to the marinade.
Substitute chicken legs with chicken thighs or breasts for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken legs for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- For extra heat, add more chile peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

- Grill the chicken legs over medium-high heat for the perfect charred and smoky flavor.

- Serve with a side of rice or a fresh salad to balance out the spiciness of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs with a side of steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grill the marinated chicken legs over medium-high heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice charred exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute light soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

- Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.

- Replace lemon grass with lime zest for a similar citrusy flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken legs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to develop even more and makes meal prep easier.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the grilled chicken legs on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs, sliced chile peppers, and a squeeze of lime juice for a vibrant and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs pairs well with a crisp and refreshing beer, a fruity white wine, or a zesty ginger beer for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the grill until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and sesame oil, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs is a balanced dish that provides a good amount of proteins and healthy fats, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates. It also offers essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

Summary

Spicy Barbecued Chicken Legs is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or any time you're craving some bold and spicy flavors. With a vibrant marinade and a smoky charred exterior, these chicken legs are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha who lived in a small town in the countryside. We were sitting on her porch, sipping lemonade and enjoying the warm breeze when she suddenly got up and disappeared into the house.

A few minutes later, she emerged from the kitchen with a platter of the most delicious-looking chicken legs I had ever seen. The aroma of spices and barbecue sauce filled the air, making my mouth water. I couldn't resist asking her for the recipe, and she laughed and said it was a family secret passed down through generations. But she promised to teach me how to make it that very day.

We spent the afternoon in her cozy kitchen, surrounded by the sounds of sizzling chicken and the chatter of old friends catching up. Martha showed me how to marinate the chicken legs in a mixture of spices, vinegar, and hot sauce, letting them soak up the flavors for hours before grilling them to perfection. As we basted the chicken with homemade barbecue sauce, Martha shared stories of her grandmother, who had taught her the recipe when she was just a young girl.

Her grandmother, a fiery and spirited woman with a love for cooking, had learned the recipe from her own mother who had picked it up from a traveling spice merchant many years ago. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, each woman adding her own twist to make it truly unique. Martha had added her own touch by adding a bit more heat to the marinade, creating a spicy and tangy flavor that was absolutely irresistible.

As we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, I couldn't help but marvel at the power of a simple recipe to bring people together and create lasting memories. The spicy barbecued chicken legs were a hit, with their tender meat and bold flavors making them a favorite among our friends and family. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the day I learned the secret of Martha's family recipe.

Years passed, and I continued to make the spicy barbecued chicken legs for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time I prepared them, I would think back to that summer day in Martha's kitchen, surrounded by love and laughter, learning the art of cooking from a dear friend. The recipe had become more than just a dish to me – it was a connection to the past, a reminder of the traditions and stories that had shaped me into the cook I was today.

Now, as I pass the recipe on to my own grandchildren, I can only hope that they will appreciate its history and significance as much as I do. The spicy barbecued chicken legs have become a part of our family lore, a symbol of the bond between generations and the joy of sharing good food with the ones we love. And as I watch my grandchildren enjoy the same flavors that have brought me so much happiness over the years, I know that the recipe will continue to be a cherished tradition for years to come.