Fermented Bean Curd Roasted Chicken Wings (南乳燒雞翼)
南乳燒雞翼, or Fermented Bean Curd Roasted Chicken Wings, is a savory and slightly tangy dish that marries the unique flavors of fermented bean curd (南乳) with the tender, juicy textures of chicken wings. The fermented bean curd not only imparts a distinct flavor but also acts as a tenderizer, making the chicken extra succulent. Here's a simple recipe to make this delicious dish at home.
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken wings
- 2 cubes of red fermented bean curd 南乳
- 1 tablespoon of the sauce from the fermented bean curd jar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar adjust based on your preference for sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger grated
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken Wings:
- In a large bowl, mash the fermented bean curd cubes into a paste. Add the sauce from the jar, soy sauce, honey or sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, Shaoxing wine, and five-spice powder. Mix well to combine.
- Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for the best flavor.
Prepare for Roasting:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 390°F). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. The wire rack will help the heat circulate around the chicken wings, making them crispier.
- Arrange the marinated chicken wings on the wire rack in a single layer.
Roast the Chicken Wings:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the chicken wings for about 20-25 minutes. Then, flip the wings over and continue roasting for another 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Optional Glaze:
- While the chicken is roasting, you can prepare a glaze if desired. In a small saucepan, combine a tablespoon of honey with a tablespoon of the marinade and a splash of water. Bring it to a simmer and let it reduce slightly until thickened. Brush this glaze over the chicken wings during the last 10 minutes of roasting for an extra layer of flavor.
Serve:
- Once the chicken wings are cooked through and have a nice golden color, remove them from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with some chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
