Indian Masala Chicken Wings Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• teaspoon ground cardamom
• teaspoon hot chile powder
• teaspoon ground black pepper
• teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon salt, or more as needed
• 5 large chicken wings, cut in half, tips discarded

Directions

Step 1: In a dry pan, combine coriander, cumin, cardamom, chile powder, black pepper, and cloves. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally until the spices become fragrant.

Step 2: Once the spices are aromatic, remove the pan from heat. Add vegetable oil and water to the spice mixture. Stir until everything is well combined, forming a thick spice paste. Set the paste aside to cool.

Step 3: In a shallow dish, rub salt all over the chicken wings. Then, take the prepared spice paste and coat the wings thoroughly, ensuring an even layer on all sides.

Step 4: Cover the wings and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Preheat an outdoor grill to high heat. Lightly oil the grill grate to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Place the marinated wings on the grill. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the wings are evenly browned and cooked through. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165F (74C) near the bone.

Recipe Tip

If you don't have access to an outdoor grill, you can also cook these wings in a well-oiled grill pan on the stove for similar results.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories	77
Total Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	1g
Cholesterol	18mg
Sodium	251mg
Total Carbohydrate	1g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Protein	6g
Calcium	11mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	49mg

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Recipe Author: Michelle Chen

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (with marination)

Description: Marinate chicken wings ahead of time in a simple homemade masala paste for an explosion of spicy Indian flavors. This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or a flavorful appetizer at your next dinner party.

Origin and History

The Indian Masala Chicken Wings are a vibrant take on traditional Indian cooking. The word "masala" refers to a blend of spices commonly used in Indian cuisine, creating a flavorful and aromatic profile that can be tailored to suit varying levels of heat. Chicken wings are a popular choice in Indian cooking due to their versatility in absorbing spices. This dish blends the crispy texture of grilled wings with the warmth and depth of traditional Indian spices like cumin, coriander, and cardamom. Although chicken wings are not a traditional Indian dish, this fusion has become popular in recent years, especially in the context of globalized food trends.

Regional Characteristics

Indian cuisine is known for its use of diverse spices, which vary widely by region. The use of spices in the masala paste, such as cumin, coriander, and cardamom, are common in North India. However, these spices are also used in many regional dishes throughout the country. Depending on the area, you may encounter a variety of regional twists on chicken wings. For instance, in Southern India, a similar dish might be made using curry leaves and coconut, while in the West, a spicier, more mustardy marinade could be used. The beauty of the Indian Masala Chicken Wings lies in how adaptable they are to different regional preferences.

Distinguishing Features

What makes Indian Masala Chicken Wings stand out from traditional chicken wings is their use of complex, aromatic spices. While typical wings might be seasoned with barbecue sauce or a hot buffalo-style coating, these wings are marinated in a paste made from ground spices that provide a richer, more layered flavor. The absence of heavy sauces allows the spices to truly shine. Additionally, the grilling method gives the wings a smoky char, further enhancing the depth of flavor. This is in stark contrast to more commonly seen fried or baked wings in Western cuisine.

Where to Serve Indian Masala Chicken Wings

Indian Masala Chicken Wings are a versatile dish that can be served at various occasions. They are often found at Indian restaurants, particularly those offering fusion cuisine or street food-style menus. At home, they make for an excellent appetizer at a dinner party, a snack for casual gatherings, or a hearty addition to any meal when paired with rice or flatbreads like naan. They also serve as a great offering for any "Indian-themed" meals or parties. Their spiced, smoky flavor pairs beautifully with cooling dips, such as yogurt-based sauces or chutneys.

Fun Facts

• Did you know that the use of spice blends in Indian cooking is thought to have evolved from ancient Ayurvedic medicine? Spices like cumin and coriander were initially used for their health benefits before becoming integral to Indian cuisine.
• Chicken wings, while an American favorite, have become popular in many other parts of the world. In India, wings are often cooked with a unique twist, using local spice combinations that differ from the typical American wing flavor.
• Grilling is a popular method of cooking in India, especially in tandoor ovens. The smoky flavor from grilling gives these wings their distinct taste, reminiscent of tandoori chicken.

FAQ about Indian Masala Chicken Wings Recipe

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