Japanese chicken wings are a popular snack in  Japanese restaurants and bars. So you can easily prepare them at home. In Japanese cuisine, this dish is called Tebasaki Karaage.

The literal translation means “fried chicken wings”. Pieces of chicken are marinated, rolled in flour, and deep-fried. So, what is Karaage? Juicy tender meat with a tasty crispy crust that is easy to cook and a pleasure to eat. 

Directions

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  1. Let’s make a marinade for the wings. Peel the ginger and garlic. Cut the ginger into small pieces, and pass the garlic through a press.
  2. Take the chicken wings, split them in two, and select the meatier part.
  3. In a small bowl, combine Japanese soy sauce, sake (or rice wine), mirin, and salt. Stir until the salt dissolves.
  4. Place the chicken wings into a large bowl, and pour in the prepared sauce, garlic, and ginger.
  5. Mix the contents of the container well so that the marinade covers the wings on all sides. Cover the container and remove it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  6. Put wheat flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper for breading in a bowl and stir evenly.
  7. Strain the marinated wings through a sieve and mix with the breading.
  8. Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or wok and heat it over medium heat to 180⁰C. Place the wings gently in hot oil.
  9. Cook the wings in oil for about 5-6 minutes, until deep frying. Remove the finished wings from the oil.
  10. Serve the wings immediately. Serve with white and red sauces.

Serving Ideas for Tebasaki Karaage

  • Traditional Japanese Style. For a classic Japanese meal, serve the crispy chicken wings with steamed white rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables.
  • With a Variety of Dips. Offer an assortment of dipping sauces such as ponzu, spicy mayo, teriyaki sauce, or sweet chili sauce to complement the savory flavor of the wings.
  • As a Party Appetizer. Serve Tebasaki Karaage as a finger food at gatherings or parties. Arrange the wings on a platter with garnishes like sliced green onions, lemon wedges, and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
  • With Asian Slaw. Pair the wings with a refreshing Asian slaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing to balance the richness of the fried chicken.
  • In a Bento Box. For a fun and portable meal, include Tebasaki Karaage in a bento box alongside sushi rolls, edamame, and fresh fruit for a complete Japanese-inspired lunch.

These serving ideas will enhance your Tebasaki Karaage experience, whether you’re enjoying it as a casual snack or as part of a more elaborate meal.

Health Benefits of Japanese Chicken Wings

  1. Rich in Protein. Chicken wings are a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body maintenance.
  2. Provides Essential Amino Acids. Chicken meat contains all the essential amino acids your body needs, supporting various functions like tissue repair and enzyme production.
  3. Iron and Zinc. Chicken wings offer important minerals like iron and zinc, which are crucial for maintaining healthy blood cells and supporting immune function.
  4. Ginger and Garlic Benefits. The marinade used in Tebasaki Karaage includes ginger and garlic, both of which have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, aiding digestion and overall health.
  5. Low-Carb Option. When prepared without heavy breading or sugary sauces, Tebasaki Karaage can be a low-carb dish, suitable for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.

While Tebasaki Karaage is a delicious and flavorful dish, it also provides several nutritional benefits, making it a satisfying and wholesome choice when enjoyed in moderation.

How to cook fried chicken wings, alternative version:

How to make perfect, crispy chicken wings!

Video by ChilliChump

Risks of Japanese Chicken Wings

  1. High Caloric Content. Deep-frying chicken wings increases caloric content, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess, especially when paired with high-calorie sauces.
  2. High Sodium Levels. The marinade, which includes soy sauce and other seasonings, can be high in sodium. Excessive sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure and a higher risk of heart disease.
  3. Potential Acrylamide Formation. Frying at high temperatures can lead to the formation of acrylamide, a chemical that has been associated with an increased risk of cancer in animal studies.
  4. Risk of High Cholesterol. Chicken skin, which is often left on during frying, contains saturated fats that can raise cholesterol levels, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  5. Possible Digestive Issues. A combination of fried food and spicy or rich sauces may cause digestive discomfort, including heartburn or indigestion, especially for individuals with sensitive stomachs.

While Tebasaki Karaage is delicious, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation and be mindful of these potential health risks.