Dim Sum Chicken Feet Recipe – Moderate Difficulty (Copycat)

Dim Sum Chicken Feet Recipe

There’s a surprising delicacy that I bet not everyone has tried: chicken feet. This dim sum staple, enjoyed from Hong Kong to Vancouver, might challenge our culinary comfort zones but offers a unique taste and texture that’s truly rewarding. Let’s dive into the heart of this overlooked gem and discover its flavors and appeal.

Dim sum chicken feet, or “phoenix talons” as they are traditionally known, have an intriguing history that dates back centuries. This humble dish has transformed into a sought-after delight, with chefs perfecting the marination and braising process to create a sticky, savory treat. With a rich sauce coating the soft, gelatinous feet, it’s no wonder it remains a favorite in dim sum carts around the world.

This table provides essential details about making our Dim Sum Chicken Feet Recipe. We cover aspects like preparation and cooking time, difficulty, and serving size. These details will help you plan and execute the recipe flawlessly.

CategoryDetails
Making DifficultyModerate
Preparation Time30 minutes
Cooking Time1 hour 30 minutes
Serving Size4 servings
Meal TypeDim Sum

Things to Keep in Mind While Making Dim Sum Chicken Feet

When preparing Dim Sum Chicken Feet, cleanliness is crucial. Chicken feet can harbor bacteria, so it’s essential to wash them thoroughly. Use cold water and salt to soak and rinse them properly before marinating.

Marination is a key step that should not be rushed. Allowing the chicken feet to marinate for at least an hour, or overnight if possible, maximizes flavor absorption. This step can make a significant difference in the final taste.

Cooking time is also very important. The feet need to be steamed until soft and then simmered for an extended period. This ensures they become tender and flavorful rather than tough and chewy.

Adjusting the seasoning during the cooking process is vital. Tasting the sauce and adding more salt, sugar, or spice as needed will help achieve the perfect balance. This makes the dish much more enjoyable.

Finally, consider how you will serve the dish. Dim Sum Chicken Feet is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serving them with a side of steamed rice or dumplings can enhance the dining experience.

Dim Sum Chicken Feet Recipe

Recipe by Mamun
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

1

minute
Calories

425

kcal

Let's gather everything we need for our delicious Dim Sum Chicken Feet Recipe. This list includes spices, sauces, and the main ingredient – chicken feet. Each item plays a vital role in achieving the perfect flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of chicken feet

  • 2 star anise pods

  • ¼ cup soy sauce

  • 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce

  • 3 tablespoons oyster sauce

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 chili pepper, finely chopped

  • 2 tablespoons fermented black beans

  • ¼ cup Chinese rice wine

  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch

How to Make Dim Sum Chicken Feet

  • Cleaning and Prepping the Chicken Feet: First, we need to clean the chicken feet thoroughly. Start by trimming the nails using a pair of kitchen scissors. Then, soak them in cold water with some salt for about 15 minutes. This helps to remove any impurities. After soaking, rinse the chicken feet under running water. Make sure to scrub them gently to clean every part. Now they are ready for the next step.
  • Making the Marinade: The marinade is crucial for adding flavor to the chicken feet. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, garlic, chili pepper, fermented black beans, and Chinese rice wine. Stir the mixture well until the sugar dissolves completely. It’s important to taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning if needed. The flavors should be balanced before adding the chicken feet. This will ensure a delicious result.
  • Marination Process:
    Now place the cleaned chicken feet into a large bowl. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken feet. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated with the sauce. Let the chicken feet marinate for at least 1 hour. If you have more time, marinating overnight in the fridge will yield even better flavors. Just cover the bowl with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
  • Cooking the Chicken Feet:
    After marination, it’s time to cook the chicken feet. Start by steaming the marinated chicken feet for about 30 minutes. This will soften them and infuse them with flavor. Once steamed, transfer the chicken feet to a pot. Pour any remaining marinade into the pot. Add extra water if needed to cover the chicken feet.
  • Adding the Sauce:
    In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Pour this mixture into the pot with the chicken feet. Stir well to combine. The sauce will start to thicken as it heats. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is rich and glossy.
  • Simmering Until Tender: Finally, let the chicken feet simmer on low heat for about 1 hour. This slow cooking process ensures they are tender and flavorful. Check occasionally and add water if needed. Once they are tender, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Now, your Dim Sum Chicken Feet is ready to be served. Enjoy this unique and tasty dish with your family and friends!

Notes

  • Calories: 425 kcal
    Protein: 16 g
    Carbohydrates: 45 g
    Fat: 20g saturated Fat: 4 g
    Sodium: 1300 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some engaging questions and answers related to preparing and enjoying Dim Sum Chicken Feet. This section will help clear up any lingering doubts and offer some helpful tips. Let’s dive in!

What is the best way to clean chicken feet?

It is essential to clean chicken feet thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities. Start by trimming the nails with kitchen scissors. Then soak the feet in cold water with some salt for about 15 minutes to help clean them.

After soaking, rinse the chicken feet under running water, scrubbing gently to ensure cleanliness. This preparatory step is essential for maintaining the hygiene and taste of the dish.

Why should I marinate chicken feet before cooking?

Marinating chicken feet allows them to absorb the flavors of the marinade more effectively. Ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and fermented black beans need time to penetrate the skin and flesh. This enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Allowing the chicken feet to marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight, maximizes flavor. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will become.

How long should I steam the chicken feet?

Steaming the chicken feet for about 30 minutes is recommended. This initial step helps to soften the feet and makes them more tender. The steaming process is essential for the texture and ensures they are easier to eat.

After steaming, the feet are typically simmered again with sauce for further cooking. This secondary step deepens the flavors and makes the dish rich and savory.

Can I adjust the seasoning during cooking?

Yes, adjusting the seasoning during the cooking process is encouraged. Tasting the sauce and adding more salt, sugar, or spices as needed helps achieve a balanced flavor. This practice ensures the dish meets your taste preferences.

Making these adjustments allows for a more customized and enjoyable eating experience. It’s all about finding the perfect taste for you and your guests.

What can I serve with Dim Sum Chicken Feet?

Dim Sum Chicken Feet pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Steamed rice is a classic choice, providing a neutral base that complements the rich flavors. Dumplings or other dim sum items also make great accompaniments.

You can also serve these chicken feet with a light vegetable dish to balance the heaviness. The key is to provide a mix of textures and flavors to create a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Preparing Dim Sum Chicken Feet is an art that combines tradition with meticulous technique. We’ve covered everything from cleaning and marinating to cooking and serving. Each step is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.

By following these guidelines, we can create a dish that pays homage to its rich culinary history. Whether served as part of a larger dim sum feast or as a specialty dish, our efforts will undoubtedly impress. Enjoy cooking and savoring this unique delicacy!

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