Last Updated on July 27, 2023
The popularity of San Tung chicken wings has soared in recent years, leaving many people craving the delicious combination of crispy wings and flavorful sauce. While it may seem daunting to recreate this beloved dish at home, with the right ingredients and techniques, you can achieve the same mouthwatering results. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making San Tung chicken wings from scratch. From gathering the necessary ingredients to cooking the wings to perfection, we will provide step-by-step instructions and helpful tips along the way. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your homemade version of this crowd-pleasing dish!
Gathering the ingredients:
- List the necessary ingredients for the recipe
Before you start making San Tung chicken wings at home, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Chicken wings: Make sure to get fresh, high-quality chicken wings.
- Marinade ingredients: You’ll need soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar, and cornstarch.
- Sauce ingredients: The signature San Tung sauce requires soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
- Coating ingredients: You’ll need cornstarch and flour to coat the chicken wings.
- Garnishes: Consider using green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro for garnishing.
Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before you start cooking to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.
Preparing the chicken wings:
Once you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to prepare the chicken wings. Start by cleaning the wings thoroughly under cold running water. Remove any excess fat or feathers and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Next, it’s time to marinate the wings. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Mix well until the sugar has dissolved. Place the chicken wings in the marinade and toss them to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
During this time, make sure to turn the wings occasionally to ensure even marination. This step is crucial as it helps to infuse the chicken with the delicious flavors of the marinade.
Once the wings have marinated, they are ready to be cooked.
Making the sauce:
Creating the signature San Tung sauce is a crucial step in achieving the authentic flavor of these chicken wings. The sauce is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, which makes it irresistible to taste buds. To make the sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons chili paste
Start by combining the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. Then, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili paste. Continue to cook the sauce for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat and let it cool. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so keep that in mind. You can store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
5. Coating the chicken wings: How to properly coat the wings in the sauce
Coating the chicken wings in the signature San Tung sauce is a crucial step in recreating the delicious flavor of the original dish. Here are some steps to ensure that the wings are perfectly coated:
- Remove the marinated chicken wings from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature.
- In a large bowl, pour the San Tung sauce and mix it well to ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Take one chicken wing at a time and dip it into the sauce, making sure to coat it completely.
- Place the coated wing on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Repeat the process with the remaining chicken wings, making sure to leave some space between each wing on the baking sheet.
- Once all the wings are coated and arranged on the baking sheet, use a brush to brush any remaining sauce over the wings for an extra burst of flavor.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the wings for 25-30 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
By following these steps, you can ensure that each chicken wing is perfectly coated in the delicious San Tung sauce, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
Cooking the chicken wings
Once the chicken wings are properly coated in the San Tung sauce, it’s time to cook them to perfection. Follow these instructions for crispy and delicious wings:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- If using an oven, place the coated wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each wing to allow for even cooking.
- Cook the wings in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This will ensure that both sides are crispy and golden brown.
- If using a deep fryer, carefully lower the coated wings into the hot oil. Fry them for about 8-10 minutes or until they are crispy and cooked through.
- Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the oven or fryer and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Allow the wings to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the sauce to set and adhere to the wings.
Now that the chicken wings are cooked to perfection, it’s time to move on to the final step – garnishing and serving.
Garnishing and Serving
Once the San Tung chicken wings are cooked to perfection, it’s time to add the finishing touches and present them in an appealing manner. Garnishing the wings not only enhances their visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor. Here are some suggestions for garnishes and presentation:
1. Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro or parsley over the wings to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
2. Sesame Seeds
Toast some sesame seeds and sprinkle them over the wings for a nutty and crunchy texture.
3. Green Onions
Thinly slice some green onions and scatter them over the wings for a touch of brightness and a mild onion flavor.
When it comes to serving the San Tung chicken wings, you can opt for a simple platter or get creative with your presentation. Arrange the wings neatly on a serving dish and place a small bowl of extra sauce on the side for dipping. You can also serve them with a side of steamed rice or a refreshing salad to balance out the flavors. Remember to provide napkins or finger bowls for easy clean-up, as these wings can get messy but oh-so-worth it!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you enhance the flavor and texture of your homemade San Tung chicken wings:
1. Marinate for longer
For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken wings for a longer period of time. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and result in a more flavorful wing.
2. Double coat for extra crispiness
If you prefer your chicken wings extra crispy, try double coating them in the sauce. After the first coat, let the wings sit for a few minutes, then coat them again. This will create a thicker, crunchier coating.
3. Experiment with spices
While the San Tung sauce is delicious on its own, don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat, or sprinkle some garlic powder for an extra kick of flavor.
4. Use a wire rack
When cooking the chicken wings in the oven, place them on a wire rack instead of directly on a baking sheet. This will allow the heat to circulate evenly around the wings, resulting in a crispier skin.
By following these tips and tricks, you can take your homemade San Tung chicken wings to the next level. Enjoy the process of experimenting and creating your own unique twist on this beloved dish!
Variations and alternatives
While the original San Tung chicken wings recipe is undeniably delicious, there are also several variations and alternatives that you can try to add your own twist to this beloved dish. One option is to experiment with different flavor profiles for the sauce. For example, you could add some heat by incorporating chili flakes or sriracha sauce. Alternatively, you could go for a sweeter version by adding honey or brown sugar to the sauce.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can try baking the chicken wings instead of frying them. This will result in a slightly different texture, but it can still be just as tasty. Another option is to use boneless chicken breast instead of wings. This can be a great choice if you prefer white meat or if you want a quicker cooking time.
For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, there are also several substitutions you can make. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you can use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Additionally, if you’re gluten-free, you can use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
By exploring these variations and alternatives, you can create a personalized version of San Tung chicken wings that suits your taste and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with it!
Revel in the Delight of Homemade San Tung Chicken Wings
After following the step-by-step instructions in this article, you are now ready to savor the fruits of your labor – the homemade San Tung chicken wings. As you take your first bite, you will be transported to the bustling streets of San Francisco, where the original San Tung restaurant has captivated taste buds for decades.
The crispy exterior of the wings, perfectly coated in the signature San Tung sauce, gives way to tender and succulent meat that is bursting with flavor. The balance of sweet and savory notes, with a hint of spiciness, is a testament to the artistry of this dish.
As you relish each bite, you can take pride in the fact that you have recreated a beloved dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. The satisfaction of achieving such culinary excellence is unparalleled. Your friends and family will be in awe of your skills, and you can confidently serve these wings at any gathering or celebration.
So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and indulge in the joy of homemade San Tung chicken wings. Let the flavors dance on your palate and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Learn how to make delicious San Tung chicken wings at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. Enjoy the satisfaction of recreating a beloved dish!
About The Author
Alison Sowle is the typical tv guru. With a social media evangelist background, she knows how to get her message out there. However, she's also an introvert at heart and loves nothing more than writing for hours on end. She's a passionate creator who takes great joy in learning about new cultures - especially when it comes to beer!