Pomegranate-Ginger Sticky Wings offer a sophisticated twist on traditional BBQ chicken wings. This recipe is designed to be easy to make, delivering a combination of sweet, sticky, and robust flavors in less than an hour. Perfect for any occasion, these wings are sure to be a hit with both adults and children alike.
Ingredients and Flavor Profile
The unique flavor of these wings comes from the combination of pomegranate and ginger. Pomegranate adds a natural sweetness and a tart contrast, while ginger provides a warm, spicy kick. These ingredients create a glaze that not only enhances the taste but also gives the wings their signature sticky texture.
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Wings
For crispy-skinned wings, it’s crucial to cook them at the right temperature. Baking the wings in a preheated oven ensures that the skin crisps up while the inside remains juicy. Applying the pomegranate-ginger glaze during the last few minutes of baking prevents the sugars in the pomegranate from burning and allows the flavor to bake into the skin.
Pomegranate-Ginger Sticky Wings Serving Suggestions
These wings are versatile and can be served as a main dish or a side at various gatherings, from sports events to family dinners. Pairing them with sides that complement their rich flavor profile, like a cool cucumber salad or creamy coleslaw, can balance the meal.
Benefits of Homemade Wings
Making wings at home allows for control over the ingredients, ensuring that there are no unnecessary additives or preservatives. This approach aligns with a healthy eating philosophy that focuses on natural, whole foods, providing a delicious way to enjoy a favorite dish without compromising dietary goals.
Pomegranate-Ginger Sticky Wings
Get restaurant-style wings at home. Sticky, sweet, delicious wings. Sweet pomegranate juice and tangy ginger couple to make the perfect wings.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 1-1/2 to 2 lbs. chicken wings, patted dry completely
- 2 tsp arrowroot powder
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1 pinch cayenne or chipotle pepper powder, optional
Pomegranate-Ginger Glaze
- 1-1/4 cup water
- 1 cup pomegranate arils/seeds**
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1-1/2 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1-1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1-1/2 tsp minced fresh ginger
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Optional Garnishes
- sliced scallions
- sliced chives
- chopped parsley
- fresh pomegranate seeds
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F, line a baking sheet with foil, and grease a wire rack. Whisk arrowroot, salt, pepper, garlic, onion and cayenne/chipotle (optogether in a small bowl.
- In a separate large bowl, lay thoroughly dried chicken wings in a single layer (or as best as you can without overlapping). Slowly distribute arrowroot mixture over wings while tossing until thoroughly coated in flour.
- Evenly lay floured wings on a greased wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet & bake for 40-45 mins while making sauce.
- Place pomegranate seeds & water in a medium saucepan, covered, and bring to a boil over med high heat. Once boiling, keep covered, turn heat down to low, and let simmer for 8 mins.
- Use a fine mesh strainer to separate hot liquid from seeds. Place hot pomegranate juice back into saucepan.
- Use the back of a spoon to smash the hot seeds in the strainer, pressing out any remaining juice back into the saucepan.
- Add honey, mustard, vinegar, ginger, and salt to saucepan of pomegranate water + juice. Whisk and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once bubbling, let boil over high heat, uncovered, for exactly 18-20 mins, whisking frequently until reduced & thickened.
- After 18-20 mins, immediately remove from heat (sauce will thicken more upon cooling, so, be careful!). In a large bowl, pour hot sauce over crispy, cooked chicken wings and toss with spatula(s) until thoroughly coated.
Notes
You can also use POM Pomegranate juice in place of fresh pomegranate seeds. Simply replace water & pomegranate seed amounts with 1/2 cup water & 3/4 cup POM juice and skip steps 4 through 6.
Lourdes
Sunday 11th of January 2015
Ridiculously delicious!! made the last nite! super easy, follow her instructions as it is. I used the juice instead of the seeds, a must to make once a week at home@ Thank you for thee recipe! Five stars!