Hunan Chicken Wings

Hunan Chicken Wings is a savory and spicy dish that originates from the Hunan province in China, known for its bold flavors and liberal use of chili peppers. The recipe captures the essence of Hunan cuisine, which is characterized by its preference for sour, hot, and fresh flavors. These wings are not only a popular choice at many Chinese restaurants but also a crowd favorite at home gatherings thanks to their irresistible mix of heat and umami.

History of Hunan Chicken Wings

The Hunan province is situated in the south-central part of China and is famous for its agricultural abundance, especially in rice, teas, and spicy peppers. Hunan cuisine is one of the Eight Great Traditions of Chinese cuisine, known particularly for spicy dishes. Historically, the cuisine was influenced by the flavors of neighboring regions, contributing to its unique taste profile that merges spiciness with subtle sour notes. Chicken wings, a more recent introduction to Hunan dishes, have become a canvas for experimenting with bold flavors.

Ingredients

• Chicken Wings - 2 pounds
• Soy Sauce - 1/4 cup
• Rice Vinegar - 2 tablespoons
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 tablespoon, grated
• Chili Paste - 2 tablespoons
• Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon
• Water - 3 tablespoons
• Sesame Oil - 1 tablespoon
• Green Onions - 1 stalk, sliced
• Sesame Seeds - for garnish

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the mixture.
3. Incorporate the chili paste into the marinade, stirring well to combine.
4. Place the chicken wings into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the wings, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for improved flavor.
5. Mix the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry.

Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the marinated chicken wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
3. Bake the wings for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are crispy and cooked through.
4. In the last 10 minutes of baking, heat a pan over medium heat and add the prepared cornstarch slurry to the remaining marinade. Stir constantly until thickened to form a glaze.
5. Remove the wings from the oven and toss them in the glaze, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
6. Drizzle the sesame oil over the wings, adding a nutty aroma.

Serving Suggestions

To enjoy your Hunan Chicken Wings, plate them and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish. These wings pair well with a side of steamed rice or a cool cucumber salad to balance out the heat. For an extra spicy kick, serve with a side of extra chili paste.

Tips for Perfecting Your Wings

• For extra crispy skin, try patting the chicken wings dry before marinating.
• If short on time, a quick 30-minute marinade will still impart decent flavor, though longer is always better.

Enjoy your homemade Hunan Chicken Wings, savoring the complex combination of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors that make this dish a classic favorite.