If you’re a fan of chicken wings and love exploring new and exciting flavors, you’re in for a treat with this Delicious Chicken Wings with Kare-Kare Sauce recipe! Combining the crispy, juicy goodness of perfectly cooked chicken wings with the rich, creamy, and savory flavors of Kare-Kare sauce creates an unforgettable dish that will take your taste buds on an adventure.
For those unfamiliar with Kare-Kare, it is a traditional Filipino dish known for its creamy peanut sauce. Typically, Kare-Kare is served with oxtail, tripe, and vegetables, but today, we’re giving it a modern twist by pairing it with crispy chicken wings. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a party, or simply craving something different from your usual wing sauces.
Let’s dive in and learn how to create this mouthwatering recipe that combines two culinary favorites into one unforgettable meal.
What is Kare-Kare?
Kare-Kare is a traditional Filipino dish made with a rich, peanut-based sauce that’s usually paired with a variety of meats, such as oxtail, tripe, and pork hocks, along with vegetables like eggplant, string beans, and banana blossoms. The sauce is made from ground peanuts, rice flour, and annatto seeds, which give the dish its distinct golden-orange color.
While the traditional dish takes a while to prepare and requires several ingredients, Kare-Kare is beloved for its creamy and savory flavor, which is complemented by the salty bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) served on the side. The richness of the peanut sauce makes it a comfort food that’s perfect for special occasions or large gatherings.
This recipe, however, is a fun and easy variation that uses crispy chicken wings as the star of the dish, while still preserving the essence of the classic Kare-Kare sauce.
Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Wings with Kare-Kare Sauce
For this recipe, you’ll need to gather both the ingredients for the chicken wings and the Kare-Kare sauce. Let’s break it down:
For the Chicken Wings:
- 10-12 chicken wings – You can use either drumettes or flats, depending on your preference. Make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning to ensure a crispy finish.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – This is for coating the chicken wings before frying.
- Salt and pepper – To season the chicken wings before frying.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a little extra flavor to the wings.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – For a smoky flavor and a nice color on the wings.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – To dredge the chicken wings for a crispy coating.
- 1 egg – This will help the flour stick to the wings for a crunchier texture.
- Oil for frying – Vegetable oil or canola oil works best for frying the wings.
For the Kare-Kare Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For sautéing the ingredients that will make up the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings a punch of flavor to the sauce.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – For a mild sweetness that balances the richness of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter – The base of the sauce and what gives Kare-Kare its signature flavor.
- 1/2 cup ground peanuts – Adds additional depth to the peanut flavor. You can use store-bought ground peanuts or grind your own.
- 2 tablespoons rice flour – Used to thicken the sauce and give it a creamy consistency.
- 2 cups chicken broth – To create the liquid base of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup coconut milk – For extra creaminess and richness in the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon annatto powder – Adds color to the sauce and a slight earthy flavor. If you can’t find annatto powder, you can use paprika as a substitute.
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce – Adds a savory umami flavor to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Balances the saltiness and brings out the sweetness of the peanut sauce.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, adjust according to your preference.
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions – For a fresh, herbal flavor.
- Toasted peanuts – For added crunch and texture.
- Bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) – Traditional Filipino side condiment that pairs well with Kare-Kare, adding a salty and umami flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Delicious Chicken Wings with Kare-Kare Sauce
Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect chicken wings with Kare-Kare sauce:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Season the Chicken Wings: Begin by patting the chicken wings dry with a paper towel. This will help them get crispy when fried. Season the wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss them well to ensure an even coating of seasoning.
- Dredge the Wings: In a shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour. Beat the egg in a separate bowl. Dip each seasoned chicken wing into the egg, then coat it in flour. Make sure each wing is well-coated, shaking off any excess flour.
- Fry the Chicken Wings: Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a small piece of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready), carefully add the chicken wings in batches. Fry the wings for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking.
- Drain the Wings: Once the wings are crispy and golden, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Set them aside while you prepare the Kare-Kare sauce.
Step 2: Make the Kare-Kare Sauce
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Prepare the Peanut Sauce: Stir in the peanut butter and ground peanuts, cooking for 1-2 minutes. The peanut butter should melt and combine with the other ingredients, forming the base of the sauce.
- Add the Liquids: Sprinkle the rice flour into the mixture and stir to combine. This will help thicken the sauce. Gradually add the chicken broth and coconut milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until it begins to thicken and becomes creamy.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the annatto powder, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The sauce should have a balanced flavor: rich, creamy, savory, and slightly sweet.
- Simmer: Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken Wings with Kare-Kare Sauce
- Coat the Chicken Wings: Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have come together, carefully add the fried chicken wings to the saucepan. Toss them gently in the sauce until the wings are fully coated with the creamy Kare-Kare sauce.
- Serve the Wings: Transfer the coated chicken wings to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the wings and garnish with chopped green onions, toasted peanuts, and a small bowl of bagoong on the side.
How to Serve Delicious Chicken Wings with Kare-Kare Sauce
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are a few ideas to serve and enjoy your Delicious Chicken Wings with Kare-Kare Sauce:
- As an Appetizer or Snack: Serve these chicken wings as a party appetizer or a snack while watching a game or movie. The creamy, savory sauce will have everyone coming back for more!
- With Steamed Rice: Pair these wings with a bowl of steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce. The creamy Kare-Kare sauce pairs perfectly with rice, making it an ideal addition to the meal.
- With Sautéed Vegetables: Add a side of sautéed vegetables like string beans, eggplant, and banana blossoms for a more traditional Filipino-style meal.
- As Part of a Filipino Feast: Serve these chicken wings with other Filipino dishes like Adobo, Sinigang, or Lechon Kawali for a full Filipino-inspired feast. It’s a great way to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures at once.
Why You Should Try This Delicious Chicken Wings with Kare-Kare Sauce Recipe
If you’re looking for a way to elevate your chicken wings game, this Delicious Chicken Wings with Kare-Kare Sauce recipe is the perfect choice. Here’s why:
- Unique Flavor Profile: The creamy, peanut-based Kare-Kare sauce offers a unique flavor that’s unlike any other wing sauce you’ve tried before. It’s rich, savory, and just the right amount of sweet and spicy.
- Comforting and Satisfying: Chicken wings are already a comfort food, but when paired with the creamy richness of Kare-Kare, this dish becomes the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply treating yourself.
- Versatile: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spice level, use different types of chicken parts (like drumsticks or thighs), and even serve it with a variety of sides to suit your preferences.
- A Filipino Twist: This recipe gives you a chance to explore Filipino flavors while still enjoying a beloved Western classic, chicken wings. It’s a wonderful way to experiment with different cuisines and discover new favorites.
Final Thoughts
Delicious Chicken Wings with Kare-Kare Sauce is a fun and exciting fusion dish that brings together two beloved classics in a whole new way. With crispy, juicy chicken wings coated in a rich and creamy peanut sauce, this recipe is sure to become a crowd favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or simply treating yourself to a special meal, this dish is bound to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and give this delicious recipe a try! You won’t regret it.