As Super Bowl Sunday arrives, gearing up with all the necessary football party foods is essential, regardless of which team you’re rooting for. Nachos, dips, deviled eggs, and sliders are all great additions to any Super Bowl spread, but crispy chicken wings are a non-negotiable must-have.
When it comes to fried chicken, the Koreans are known for doing it best. Dakgangjeong, or Korean Fried Chicken, leaves a lasting impression with its sticky umami-packed glaze and shatteringly crisp coating. The secret to achieving that perfect crunch is a simple pantry ingredient: cornstarch.
Coating the chicken in cornstarch helps develop a light, crispy crust all around the wings when they meet the hot oil. Double-frying the chicken is another crucial step that ensures the crispy crust can withstand the generous amount of sauce.
The effectiveness of using cornstarch to make chicken wings crispy comes down to science. Cornstarch is a pure starch that gelatinizes when combined with heat and water, creating a protective barrier that seals in juices and prevents the meat from overcooking, resulting in a crispy crust when fried.
To make chicken wings with cornstarch, there are two methods: dry and wet. The dry method is ideal for a dry rub or simple seasoning, while the wet method works best for marinated wings. Regardless of the method used, double-frying the wings is key to achieving the perfect crispy texture.
Cornstarch isn’t just good for chicken wings – it can be used in various dishes, from Chinese stir-fries to deep-fried tofu, vegetables, and even French fries. By replacing a quarter of the flour in a batter with cornstarch, you can create an extra crispy crust with minimal effort.
For those cooking with an air fryer, the dry method for chicken wings with cornstarch can also be used. Simply air fry at 400° for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, and then finishing with a final 5-minute fry for perfectly crispy wings.
In the world of fried foods, cornstarch is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish, providing a crispy texture that is sure to impress. Experiment with different recipes and enjoy the delicious results of using cornstarch to achieve that perfect crunch.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.