Chicken feet, also known as phoenix claws, are a popular ingredient in many Asian cuisines, particularly in Chinese and Korean cooking. They are a delicacy that is not only flavorful but also rich in collagen, which is believed to have numerous health benefits. In this blog post, we will explore the art of making spicy grilled chicken feet, a dish that is perfect for adventurous foodies who are looking to try something new and exciting.
The Benefits of Chicken Feet
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the benefits of chicken feet. They are an excellent source of protein, collagen, and other essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D. Chicken feet are also rich in gelatin, which is a protein that is known to improve skin health, joint health, and digestion. In addition, chicken feet are low in fat and calories, making them an ideal ingredient for health-conscious foodies.
Choosing the Right Chicken Feet
When it comes to choosing the right chicken feet, there are a few things to consider. Look for chicken feet that are fresh, plump, and have a smooth texture. Avoid chicken feet that are dry, wrinkled, or have a funny smell. You can usually find chicken feet at Asian markets or online. If you can’t find them in your local market, you can also ask your butcher to order them for you.
Preparing the Chicken Feet
1. Cleaning the Chicken Feet: Rinse the chicken feet under cold water, then scrub them with a brush to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Removing the Toenails: Use a pair of kitchen shears or a toenail clipper to remove the toenails from the chicken feet.
3. Removing the Skin: Use a sharp knife to remove the skin from the chicken feet. This will help the marinade penetrate deeper into the meat.
4. Cutting the Joint: Cut the joint that connects the two bones in the chicken foot. This will help the chicken foot to spread out and cook evenly.
Marinating the Chicken Feet
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Mixing the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, Gochujang, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and water.
2. Adding the Chicken Feet: Add the chicken feet to the marinade and mix well to coat.
3. Refrigerating the Chicken Feet: Refrigerate the chicken feet for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Grilling the Chicken Feet
1. Preheating the Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Removing the Chicken Feet from the Marinade: Remove the chicken feet from the marinade and shake off any excess marinade.
3. Grilling the Chicken Feet: Grill the chicken feet for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely charred and cooked through.
4. Brushing with Sesame Oil: Brush the chicken feet with sesame oil during the last minute of grilling.
Serving the Spicy Grilled Chicken Feet
- With a Dipping Sauce: Serve the spicy grilled chicken feet with a dipping sauce made from a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, Gochujang, and garlic.
- With a Side of Kimchi: Serve the spicy grilled chicken feet with a side of kimchi, a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables.
- As a Snack: Serve the spicy grilled chicken feet as a snack or an appetizer.
READ MORE: Guide to Making Grilled Chicken Breast with Cucumbers