Persian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and unique culinary techniques. While many think of traditional dishes like kabobs, rice, and stews when imagining Persian food, Persian chicken wings offer a delightful fusion of traditional spices with the universally loved finger food. Let's dive into seven exquisite recipes that will transport your taste buds straight to Persia.
Saffron and Lemon Chicken Wings
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1 pinch saffron
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 2 lemons (juice and zest)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Steep the saffron in hot water for 10 minutes until it infuses the water with a golden color.
- In a bowl, mix the saffron water with lemon juice, zest, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken wings to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Grill or bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the wings are cooked through and have a nice char.
🍋 Note: Using fresh saffron will give your wings a beautiful color and an authentic Persian flavor. If you're unable to find saffron, turmeric can be used as a substitute, though the taste and color will vary.
Pomegranate Molasses Glazed Wings
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1/2 cup pomegranate molasses
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a bowl, combine pomegranate molasses, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic. Toss the wings in the sauce to coat them well.
- Arrange wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then turn, baste with more sauce, and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until wings are caramelized and tender.
🌰 Note: Pomegranate molasses adds a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the richness of chicken. Look for it in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online.
Advieh Spiced Chicken Wings
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken wings | 2 lbs |
| Advieh spice blend | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
Preparation:
- Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F.
- Mix Advieh spice with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt to create a marinade.
- Marinate the wings for at least 2 hours.
- Grill or bake the wings, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking, for about 25 minutes or until they are fully cooked.
Sumac and Thyme Wings
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 2 tablespoons ground sumac
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt
Preparation:
- Mix sumac, thyme, garlic, olive oil, and salt in a bowl.
- Coat the wings with this mixture and let them marinate for at least 3 hours.
- Grill or bake at 425°F for about 30 minutes, flipping once during cooking.
🌿 Note: Sumac imparts a tangy, lemon-like flavor that contrasts beautifully with the herbs, making these wings unique.
Tahdig-inspired Chicken Wings
Traditionally, Tahdig is the crispy bottom layer of Persian rice. Here's how you can bring some of that crispy magic to your wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Saffron water (similar to the saffron chicken recipe)
- Salt
Preparation:
- Mix yogurt, melted butter, saffron water, and salt.
- Coat wings with this mixture.
- Cook at 450°F for 10 minutes, then lower to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake until tender. Uncover and broil to crisp up the skin.
Cilantro and Lime Wings
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1⁄2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 limes, zested and juiced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1⁄4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- Combine cilantro, lime zest, juice, garlic, olive oil, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Marinate wings for at least 1 hour.
- Grill or bake at 425°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Ghormeh Sabzi Wings
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1 bunch parsley, finely chopped
- 1⁄2 bunch cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 leeks, green parts only, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried fenugreek leaves
- 1 tablespoon turmeric
- 2 dried limes (limoo amani)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- Mix all ingredients except the wings to make a herb mixture.
- Marinate wings in this mixture for at least 4 hours.
- Cook at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until the wings are crispy and the herbs have browned.
In these seven recipes, you’ve explored the diverse flavors of Persian cuisine applied to chicken wings. Each recipe brings a piece of Persian culture to your table, with ingredients and techniques that make the wings not just a snack, but a culinary journey. Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering, or just to treat yourself, these wings provide a delicious and exotic twist on a beloved dish.
What makes Persian chicken wings unique?
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Persian chicken wings incorporate traditional Persian spices and ingredients like saffron, sumac, pomegranate molasses, and various herbs, giving them unique flavors and aromas not commonly found in other culinary traditions.
Can I make these recipes without saffron?
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Yes, you can substitute saffron with turmeric for color, although it won’t provide the same distinct flavor. Use a small amount as turmeric is potent.
What are the health benefits of using sumac in chicken wings?
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Sumac is rich in antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory properties, and can aid digestion. It also adds a tangy flavor that reduces the need for extra salt, making wings healthier.
How do I get the crispiest wings for these recipes?
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To achieve crispiness, pat the wings dry before marinating, use a high initial baking temperature, and consider finishing them under the broiler or on a grill for a few minutes to crisp up the skin.
Where can I buy the spices used in these recipes?
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Most Persian or Middle Eastern grocery stores carry these spices. Alternatively, you can find them online, often from specialty spice retailers or through platforms like Amazon or Etsy.
