Persian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, fragrant spices, and an emphasis on fresh ingredients. Among its many delights is "Kabab," a beloved method of grilling meat that has been perfected over centuries. While kababs are traditionally made with lamb, beef, or chicken, I’ve taken a modern twist on this classic with my recipe for Persian "Wing Kabab." This dish combines the best of Persian culinary traditions with the universal love for chicken wings, resulting in a flavor-packed, juicy treat that’s perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
Chicken Wings: 1850 grams (approximately 4 lbs), cleaned and ready for marination
Yellow Onion: 550 grams (divided into 250 grams and 300 grams portions)
Garlic: 6 cloves
Yogurt: 2 tablespoons (dipped)
Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons
Tomato Paste: 1.5 tablespoons
Lime Juice: Juice from 2 limes
Red Pepper: To taste
Black Pepper: To taste
Salt: To taste
Turmeric: A small pinch (to avoid overly yellowing the wings)
Saffron: Prepared with ice (for vibrant color and aroma)
Instructions:
Brining the Chicken:
Start placing the chicken wings in a salt brine for about 20 minutes. This step not only cleans the wings but also enhances their flavor and tenderness.
Preparing the Marinade:
In a mixer, combine 250 grams of yellow onion, 300 grams of yellow onion, garlic cloves, yogurt, mayonnaise, tomato paste, lime juice, red pepper, black pepper, salt, and a small pinch of turmeric. Blend these ingredients until they form a smooth, liquid marinade.
Adding Saffron:
After draining the chicken wings from the brine, add the saffron that has been prepared with ice. Mix well to ensure that the saffron is fully incorporated into the wings. Allow the chicken to sit with the saffron for about 10 minutes.
Marinating the Chicken:
Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken wings, ensuring each wing is thoroughly coated. Cover the marinated chicken and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, preferably up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in tender and flavorful wings.
Cooking the Wings:
When ready to cook, you have a few options:
Traditional Skewers on Coal: For an authentic Persian experience, skewer the wings and grill them over hot coals, turning frequently until they are fully cooked and charred to perfection.
Air Fryer: If you prefer a quicker method, use an air fryer, which will give you crispy wings with minimal effort.
BBQ Grill: You can also use a BBQ grill for a classic smoky flavor.
Serving:
Serve the Wing Kababs hot, garnished with fresh herbs, a side of rice, or flatbread. These wings are a versatile dish, perfect as an appetizer or a main course.
Enjoy your Persian Wing Kabab, a delicious fusion of tradition and modern flavors that is sure to impress your family and friends!