Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
330 | 19g | 5g | 15g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
12g | 0g | 24g | 1.5g |
One bite into these Wasabi Ginger Chicken Wings and you’ll know why I adore this recipe. Growing up in Nebraska, our family gatherings often took place around a large table laden with comfort foods and stories of the week gone by. Even though these wings might seem slightly outside the traditional fare I enjoyed as a child, they still hold that comforting essence. Mixing the bold flavors of wasabi and ginger, these wings bring something new and exciting to the table while embodying that sense of coming together and sharing a meal.
A Fusion of Flavors
The combination of wasabi and ginger creates an unforgettably tangy and spicy flavor profile that dances on your taste buds. The soy sauce infuses a depth of umami, while honey provides just the right touch of sweetness to balance it all out. The rice vinegar and sesame oil offer that final layer of sophistication. It’s a dish that challenges conventional Midwestern tastes but does so in a way that feels both familiar and innovative.
Health Benefits to Consider
Not only is this dish irresistibly delicious, but it also comes with a variety of health benefits. Ginger is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion. Wasabi, on the other hand, is a natural antimicrobial agent and is often cited for its ability to improve heart health. In addition, choosing chicken wings as your protein provides a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Combining these nutritious ingredients makes this recipe a health-forward choice for any meal.
Perfect Pairings
These Wasabi Ginger Chicken Wings are versatile enough to be served as a main dish or as a tantalizing appetizer. Consider pairing them with a crisp, refreshing cucumber salad or a bowl of steamed jasmine rice to complement the strong flavors. They also work splendidly with other Asian-inspired dishes like fried rice or miso soup. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a cooler side dish can provide the perfect balance.
In a world where food often leads you back to cherished memories or forward to new experiences, these Wasabi Ginger Chicken Wings manage to achieve both. They’re a bit of a departure from my traditional heartland roots, but their rich, layered flavors and health benefits make them a favorite on my family’s table. So, gather your loved ones, prepare this recipe, and let the flavors speak for themselves.
What You’ll Need
- 3 lbs chicken wings
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp wasabi paste
- 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, wasabi paste, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
Step Three
Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the wings to ensure they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the wings marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
Step Four
Arrange the marinated chicken wings on the wire rack, making sure they are not touching each other. Reserve the leftover marinade.
Step Five
Bake the chicken wings in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Baste the wings with the reserved marinade halfway through baking for extra flavor.
Step Six
Once the wings are cooked through and have a golden brown color, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
Step Seven
Transfer the wings to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Step Eight
Serve the Wasabi Ginger Chicken Wings hot and enjoy!