If you're a fan of Korean cuisine or just love spicy, crispy chicken wings, you've probably heard about Korean-style spicy wings. These wings are a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and spicy, with a crunchy exterior that locks in all those incredible flavors. Making crispy Korean-style spicy wings at home is easier than you might think, and with a few key ingredients and some simple techniques, you can create a dish that's every bit as delicious as what you'd find in a Korean restaurant.
In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making these addictive wings, including the ingredients, preparation techniques, and tips for getting that perfect crispy texture.
What Makes Korean-Style Wings Special?
Korean-style wings stand out because of their unique texture and flavor. Unlike the typical American buffalo wings, Korean wings are twice-fried, giving them a super crispy crust. This method ensures that the wings stay crispy even after being coated in sauce, which is essential for any great wing dish. The sauce itself is another element that sets these wings apart. Korean spicy wings are often made with gochujang, a fermented red chili paste that provides a deep, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all the ingredients you need to recreate this dish at home.
For the Wings:
2 pounds of chicken wings (split into drumettes and flats)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornstarch (this helps to achieve a super crispy texture)
1 teaspoon baking powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Korean Spicy Sauce:
3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean fermented chili paste)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey (for sweetness and balance)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes, optional for extra heat)
For Garnish (Optional):
Sesame seeds
Chopped green onions
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Korean Spicy Wings
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process.
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Start by cleaning and patting your chicken wings dry with paper towels. Drying the wings is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the wings in the dry mixture, making sure they are evenly coated. The combination of cornstarch and flour creates a crunchy coating that’s key to achieving that signature crispiness.
Step 2: First Fry
The secret to crispy Korean wings lies in frying them twice. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to submerge the wings fully. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the wings in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the wings for about 7-8 minutes until they turn light golden brown but aren’t fully cooked through. The first fry is meant to cook the chicken and set the coating. Remove the wings and let them drain on a wire rack.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Sauce
While the wings rest after the first fry, it’s time to make the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sesame oil, and gochugaru if you want extra heat. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until everything is well combined and the sugar has dissolved. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The sauce should be slightly thick but still pourable.
Step 4: Second Fry
Now it’s time for the second fry, which will give the wings their extra crispy exterior. Heat the oil back up to 375°F (190°C). Fry the wings again for another 3-5 minutes until they are golden brown and perfectly crispy. The second fry ensures that the wings have that satisfying crunch that holds up even after being tossed in sauce. Once they are done, remove them from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack once again.
Step 5: Toss the Wings in Sauce
With your wings crispy and golden, it's time to coat them in the spicy sauce. Place the wings in a large mixing bowl and pour the sauce over them. Use tongs to toss the wings until they are evenly coated. Make sure every wing is drenched in that delicious sauce. You want the sauce to cling to the wings without making them soggy, so be sure not to overdo it.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the wings are coated, transfer them to a serving platter. If you want to add a little extra flair, sprinkle some sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top. These garnishes not only enhance the appearance of the wings but also add a nice flavor contrast.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Your crispy Korean-style spicy wings are now ready to be devoured! Serve them hot, with extra sauce on the side if you like. These wings are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish whenpaired with sides like steamed rice, pickled radishes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Korean-Style Wings
Use Cornstarch: Don’t skip the cornstarch in the coating mixture. It’s essential for creating that light, crispy texture.
Fry Twice: The double-frying method is crucial for achieving super crispy wings. Make sure the oil is at the right temperature for both the first and second fry.
Adjust the Heat: If you like your wings extra spicy, feel free to add more gochujang or gochugaru to the sauce. Conversely, if you prefer milder wings, you can reduce the amount of chili paste.
Rest the Wings: After frying, let the wings rest on a wire rack rather than paper towels. This allows excess oil to drip off without making the wings soggy.
Experiment with Flavors: While gochujang is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other flavors. Try adding a touch of ginger or a squeeze of lime juice to the sauce for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Making crispy Korean-style spicy wings at home is a fun and rewarding culinary adventure. With the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, combined with an ultra-crispy texture, these wings are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you're making them for a casual weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, they're guaranteed to impress. Follow the steps and tips in this guide, and you’ll be on your way to mastering this delicious Korean dish!
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