Recipe: Tangy Chicken Wings

Dude Food

As the name suggests, dude food is mainly eaten by, well… blokes. Though I can’t speak for all men, I experience the male appetite by cooking for my dear husband. Thankfully he’s not fussy, but like most of the men I know, he’s partial to anything meaty, spicy or hearty that can be eaten by the handful (utensils not required).

Dude...

In case you haven’t noticed, it’s the final round of the 2012 State of Origin, and the perfect excuse for man food. In honour of the third and final round, I’ve come up with a recipe to fire up your taste buds in preparation for what is sure to be a passion-filled game (as I understand, NSW has a fighting chance of winning the 2012 title – the last time they won was in 2005).

I love this recipe because it’s so simple yet oh so delicious. Better yet, the ingredients are inexpensive and are common pantry items. Even if you’re rushed for time, a quick 10 minute marinade is all you need to produce a rich tanginess (thanks to the tomato sauce). I’ve also included honey whichs adds a certain sticky sweetness, that will have you licking your fingers clean (no cutlery required!) – perfect for a night of footy, regardless of which code floats your boat.

This recipe is dedicated to all the men who will be passionately supporting their State of Origin – may the best team win (but go the Blues).

Tangy Chicken Wings

Serves 4, as a snack
Preparation: 15 minutes+
Cooking: 60 minutes
My husband likes it hot, so I add a fair bit of chili (ground and flakes), but you can add less or more, to taste.
Ingredients

1kg chicken wings, cut at the joints, tips removed
1/2 cup light soy sauce
3 tablespoons tomato sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic, crushed
2 teaspoons crushed chili (optional)
2 teaspoons ground chili (optional)

Method

In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, tomato sauce, honey, garlic and chili (if using). Whisk until blended. Add the chicken wings and toss to combine. Set aside to marinade overnight, but if you’re pressed for time, leave for at least 10 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 180C. Line a baking tray with foil. Spread out the marinated chicken in a single layer. Spoon over about 1/4 cup of the marinade, then discard the rest. Cover tightly with foil, and bake in the oven for an hour.
Remove from the oven and serve your hungry blokes.