Transform Your Chicken Wings with This Revolutionary Velveting Technique

Velveting chicken wings is a culinary technique that transforms ordinary chicken wings into extraordinary culinary delights. By marinating the wings in a special cornstarch-based batter, you unlock a world of unparalleled crispiness and tenderness. This guide will walk you through every step of the velveting process, empowering you to create restaurant-quality chicken wings in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken wings
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Wire rack

Step-by-Step Velveting Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper.

2. Marinate the Chicken Wings:

Add the chicken wings to the marinade and stir to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

3. Rinse and Drain:

After marinating, rinse the chicken wings thoroughly with cold water to remove any excess cornstarch. Drain the wings on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes.

4. Double-Fry the Chicken Wings:

Heat a frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken wings in batches for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. Rest the Chicken Wings:

Remove the chicken wings from the oil and let them rest on a wire rack for 5 minutes.

6. Second Fry:

Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the chicken wings for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the velveted chicken wings immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Tips for Perfect Velveting

• Use a high-quality cornstarch for the best results.
• Don’t over-marinate the chicken wings, as this can make them tough.
• Double-frying is essential for achieving the ultimate crispiness.
• Let the chicken wings rest before the second fry to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan or deep fryer.

Variations on Velveting

• Spicy Velveted Chicken Wings: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Sesame Velveted Chicken Wings: Add 2 tablespoons of roasted sesame seeds to the marinade.
• Honey Garlic Velveted Chicken Wings: Add 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the marinade.

Health Benefits of Velveting

Velveting chicken wings not only enhances their flavor but also offers some health benefits:

• Reduced Fat Absorption: The cornstarch coating helps create a barrier that prevents the chicken wings from absorbing excess oil during frying.
• Increased Nutrient Retention: The marinade helps lock in the chicken’s natural juices and nutrients.
• Improved Digestion: The cornstarch helps break down the proteins in the chicken, making it easier to digest.

Beyond Chicken Wings

While velveting is traditionally used for chicken wings, it can also be applied to other types of poultry and seafood:

• Chicken Thighs: Velveted chicken thighs are tender and juicy with a crispy exterior.
• Shrimp: Velveted shrimp are incredibly tender and flavorful.
• Fish Fillets: Velveted fish fillets are crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. What is the purpose of velveting chicken wings?

Velveting chicken wings creates a crispy and succulent texture by marinating the wings in a cornstarch-based batter.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken wings?

Marinate the chicken wings for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

3. Can I use other types of starch instead of cornstarch?

Yes, you can use tapioca starch or potato starch as alternatives to cornstarch.

4. Why is double-frying important?

Double-frying ensures that the chicken wings are cooked evenly and achieve maximum crispiness.

5. What are some dipping sauces that pair well with velveted chicken wings?

Popular dipping sauces include ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, honey mustard, and barbecue sauce.