Arabic-style chicken wings

Delicious Arabic-Style Chicken Wings Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours (or more for an intense flavor)
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 4

I present to you a recipe for Arabic-style chicken wings that will transport you with every bite into a world full of flavors and textures. These wings are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and have a marinade that gives them an unmistakable taste. This recipe was popularized by Irina Morari on a culinary forum, and today I will turn it into a memorable experience for you.

Ingredients needed:

- 10 chicken wings, cut in half
- 2 eggs
- 1 small glass (about 100 ml) of milk
- 1 small glass (about 100 ml) of water
- Salt, to taste
- Chili powder, to preference (I suggest 1-2 teaspoons for a bit of heat)
- Flour (about 1-2 cups, depending on the amount of meat)
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of the pan)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the marinade:
In a large bowl, crack the 2 eggs. Ask yourself, "How do I want the final texture to be?" If you prefer it a bit creamier, you can use only the yolks. Whisk the eggs well with a whisk until smooth. Add the milk and water, continuing to mix. Then, add salt and chili powder, being careful to adjust the amount to your taste.

2. Marinating the wings:
Place the chicken wings in the bowl with the prepared sauce and make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but ideally, you should let them marinate overnight. Marinating not only brings deep flavors but also helps tenderize the meat.

3. Preparing for frying:
In a separate bowl, place the flour. You can also add a pinch of salt or even a teaspoon of paprika for extra flavor. After the wings have marinated, take them out of the fridge and let them come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.

4. Coating the wings:
Take each wing piece and coat it well in flour. Make sure it is evenly covered to achieve a crispy crust. This step is essential for getting that perfect texture.

5. Frying:
In a large skillet, add enough oil to cover the bottom. Heat the oil over medium heat. Take your time to check the oil temperature: throw a pinch of flour into the pan; if it starts to sizzle, it's time to add the wings. Fry the wings in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan until they are golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes on each side.

6. Draining the oil:
Once the wings are fried, remove them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil.

Serving suggestions:

These wings are delicious served hot, alongside a fresh salad or with a portion of flavored basmati rice. You can also add a yogurt sauce with mint for a refreshing contrast. Another option is to serve them with warm flatbreads, turning them into a perfect breakfast or snack.

Tips and tricks:

- If you want to give the recipe a twist, you can add herbs like oregano or thyme to the marinade.
- Another option is to bake them. Preheat the oven to 200°C, place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 30-35 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning.
- If you're looking for a healthier option, you can cook them in an air fryer, achieving a crispy crust but with much less oil.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken wings are an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. Eggs and milk add calcium and essential vitamins, and adding chili can help boost metabolism.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, you can use frozen wings, but make sure to fully thaw them before marinating.

2. How can I make the wings spicier?
Add more chili powder or other spicy seasonings, such as hot peppers or hot sauces to the marinade.

3. Can I prepare them a day in advance?
It is recommended to prepare them fresh, but you can marinate them a day ahead. Cook them on the day you wish to serve for the best results.

4. What can I accompany these wings with?
I recommend serving them with a raw vegetable salad, hummus, or even grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

So, I invite you to try this Arabic-style chicken wings recipe, enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen, and savor a delicious dish with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!