When the vibrant energy of dim sum season fills the air, I can’t help but feel excited about re-creating the experience right in my own kitchen. This Dim Sum Chicken Feet recipe is a delightful journey that transforms humble ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor and character.
You’d be surprised how something often overlooked can become a star on your dinner table. The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory elements in this dish will not only impress your family and friends but might also have them asking for seconds. From the first crunch of perfectly fried chicken feet to the aromatic sauce simmering with star anise and garlic, every bite tells a story.
If you find yourself stuck in the cycle of mundane weeknight meals or just looking to elevate your culinary repertoire, these chicken feet will be your ticket to exploring the rich flavors of dim sum culture. Dive into this unique recipe that combines tradition and bold flavors, and discover how exciting chicken feet can be! Ready to take the plunge? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Dim Sum Chicken Feet so special?
Unique flavor profile: The blend of sweet honey, savory sauces, and spices makes this dish a standout that excites the palate.
Adventurous dining: Experience a traditional dim sum favorite with an exhilarating twist, perfect for culinary explorers.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress guests with a dish that’s sure to spark conversations at any dinner party.
Versatile ingredient: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these chicken feet adapt seamlessly to various meal occasions.
Satisfying crunch: The deep-frying process ensures a delightful texture that complements the tender, flavorful bites.
Dare to try? This recipe invites you to elevate your cooking game and embrace bold flavors like never before!
Dim Sum Chicken Feet Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 1 pound chicken feet – Essential for this dim sum classic; look for fresh or frozen options.
• 3 tablespoons vinegar – Helps to clean the feet and tenderize the skin for better flavor.
For the Sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey – Adds a touch of natural sweetness to balance the savory ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce – Brings umami depth to your Dim Sum Chicken Feet, enhancing the flavor profile.
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce – Provides saltiness while keeping the dish vibrant.
• 1-3 teaspoons chili garlic sauce – Adjust this for the level of heat you desire in your dish.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Offers a caramel-like sweetness that complements the spiciness.
• ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper – Adds a subtle warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
• ½ teaspoon dark soy sauce – Use this for color and a richer taste in your sauce base.
Aromatic Essentials
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil – Ideal for stir-frying without altering the flavor profile of your sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic – Sliced for a fragrant addition that perfectly personalizes the dish.
• 4 slices ginger – Adds warmth and spice, making the dish more aromatic.
• 1 tablespoon fermented black beans – Introduces a unique, umami-rich tang that enhances the flavors.
Herbs and Spices
• 2 pieces star anise – Provide a warm, sweet spice that forms the aromatic backbone of the dish.
• 2 bay leaves – Add depth to the cooking liquid, enhancing the overall flavor during simmering.
How to Make Dim Sum Chicken Feet
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Boil In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water, vinegar, and honey to a boil. Gently add the chicken feet and simmer for 3 minutes; then drain and set aside.
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Prepare Using kitchen shears, snip off the nails from the chicken feet. Discard the nails and keep the chicken feet ready for the next steps.
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Fry In a wok or high-walled pot, heat about 1 inch of oil to 350°F. Carefully add the chicken feet to the hot oil and cover with a lid to minimize splatter. Deep-fry in batches for 3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and slightly puffed. Transfer them to a large bowl of cold water and soak for 1 hour.
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Mix In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients—honey, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, brown sugar, white pepper, and dark soy sauce—then set aside.
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Sauté Heat oil in a clean wok over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in the star anise, bay leaves, and fermented black beans, stirring for another 30 seconds to infuse the flavors.
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Simmer Add your prepared sauce mixture to the wok and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the chicken feet and cook for 2 minutes to ensure they absorb all that delicious flavor.
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Cover Pour enough water to just barely cover the chicken feet (approximately 2 ½ cups). Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat. Cover and let it simmer for 45 minutes for the ultimate tenderness.
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Reduce Remove the chicken feet from the wok. Increase the heat to high and boil the sauce for 10 minutes until it reduces to about 1 cup. Return the chicken feet to the wok, tossing to ensure they’re evenly coated in the rich sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for an added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Dim Sum Chicken Feet Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe; these twists can elevate your dish and delight your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add extra chili garlic sauce to the sauce mix for a fiery flavor that will ignite your palate. With that added heat, each bite becomes an exciting explosion of flavors!
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Herby Twist: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil just before serving for a refreshing lift that brightens the dish beautifully. Their aromatic qualities will create a delightful contrast to the savory sauce.
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Coconut Infusion: Replace water with coconut milk during the simmering stage for a creamy, tropical flair that complements the spices wonderfully. The added creaminess pairs beautifully with the aromatic sauce!
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Soy-Free Option: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep the savory richness while catering to those seeking a soy-free alternative. It maintains flavor while offering a healthier option.
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Sweet & Savory: Consider adding diced pineapples into the simmer for a sweet finish that counterbalances the savory elements perfectly. It’s a great way to sneak in a bit of fruity flair!
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Vegan Delight: Substitute chicken feet with king oyster mushrooms as a vegan-friendly alternative that still absorbs flavor beautifully. Plus, the texture remains satisfying and tender.
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Nutty Finish: Drizzle with sesame oil just before serving to enrich the sauce with a nutty aroma that will have everyone at the table savoring each bite. It’s a simple yet impactful twist!
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of lime or lemon juice just before serving for a zingy finish that brightens the dish. The citrus will cut through the richness and elevate the overall experience!
What to Serve with Dim Sum Chicken Feet?
Creating a complete meal around these delicious chicken feet can elevate your dining experience into a feast of exciting flavors.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice soaks up the savory sauce perfectly, balancing the flavors of the chicken feet.
- Pickled Vegetables: Crunchy, tangy pickles provide a refreshing contrast, cleansing the palate and brightening the meal.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A side of sweet chili sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and a delightful kick, exciting your taste buds.
- Wonton Soup: This comforting broth complements the richness of the chicken feet, creating a hearty and satisfying meal pairing.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy adds a pop of color and a nutritious, crunchy texture that complements the dish beautifully.
- Oolong Tea: This aromatic tea helps cut through the richness of the chicken feet, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Mango Pudding: A light, creamy dessert like mango pudding rounds off the meal with a sweet and fruity finish that delights.
- Sesame Green Beans: The nutty flavor of sesame-coated green beans adds a great texture and richness that pairs wonderfully with the chicken feet.
Expert Tips for Dim Sum Chicken Feet
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Choose Fresh Feet: Opt for fresh chicken feet when possible, as they provide better flavor and texture than frozen options.
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Proper Frying: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to achieve a crispy texture; overheating can burn the feet or create an uneven cook.
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Don’t Rush Soaking: Soak the fried chicken feet in cold water for at least 1 hour. This step ensures they become tender and absorb all the wonderful flavors of your sauce.
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Customize Spice Level: Adjust the chili garlic sauce according to your heat preference, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy these savory Dim Sum Chicken Feet.
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Thickening the Sauce: For a thicker sauce consistency, feel free to mix in a cornstarch slurry during the boiling phase after removing the chicken feet.
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Garnish for Flair: Consider garnishing your dish with freshly chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a vibrant touch that enhances the overall presentation.
Make Ahead Options
These Dim Sum Chicken Feet are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the chicken feet up to 24 hours in advance by boiling and trimming them, then refrigerating until you’re ready to fry. To keep their delightful crunch, deep-fry them on the day you plan to serve. Additionally, you can mix the sauce components and refrigerate them for up to 3 days; simply give it a stir before adding it to your cooked chicken feet. When it’s time to eat, just reheat the sauce, toss in the chicken feet, and enjoy restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Dim Sum Chicken Feet
Fridge: Store cooked Dim Sum Chicken Feet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken feet in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Leftover Sauce: The remaining sauce can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for future use, making it a versatile addition to other dishes.
Dim Sum Chicken Feet Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken feet for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken feet, look for fresh ones that are pink with minimal dark spots. If you’re opting for frozen chicken feet, ensure the packaging is intact and the feet appear firm, not mushy.
How do I store leftover Dim Sum Chicken Feet?
Store your cooked Dim Sum Chicken Feet in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat gently on the stove to revive their deliciousness!
Can I freeze Dim Sum Chicken Feet?
Very much! To freeze, place the cooled chicken feet in a sealed freezer bag, ensuring to expel as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be safely stored for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce turns out too thin, don’t worry! Just remove the chicken feet, increase the heat on your stove, and boil the sauce for an additional 10 minutes. This method will help concentrate the flavors and thicken the sauce. For extra thickness, you can mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and stir it in while boiling.
Are chicken feet safe for pets?
I recommend caution! While cooked chicken feet can be a tasty treat for some dogs, make sure they are fully cooked without any added spices or sauces. Always consult your veterinarian first, especially if you have concerns about allergies or dietary restrictions.
What are some common issues I might face while making Dim Sum Chicken Feet?
Don’t fret! One common issue is the chicken feet not having a crispy texture—keeping oil at 350°F is crucial for this. If they taste bland, make sure your sauce ingredients are well-integrated and balanced; adjusting the sweet and spicy elements can ramp up the flavor significantly. Remember, seasoning is key!
Savory Dim Sum Chicken Feet: A Taste of Adventure
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water, vinegar, and honey to a boil. Gently add the chicken feet and simmer for 3 minutes; then drain and set aside.
- Using kitchen shears, snip off the nails from the chicken feet. Discard the nails and keep the chicken feet ready for the next steps.
- In a wok or high-walled pot, heat about 1 inch of oil to 350°F. Carefully add the chicken feet to the hot oil and cover with a lid to minimize splatter. Deep-fry in batches for 3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and slightly puffed. Transfer them to a large bowl of cold water and soak for 1 hour.
- In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients—honey, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, brown sugar, white pepper, and dark soy sauce—then set aside.
- Heat oil in a clean wok over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the star anise, bay leaves, and fermented black beans, stirring for another 30 seconds.
- Add your prepared sauce mixture to the wok and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the chicken feet and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour enough water to just barely cover the chicken feet (approximately 2 ½ cups). Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat. Cover and let it simmer for 45 minutes.
- Remove the chicken feet from the wok. Increase the heat to high and boil the sauce for 10 minutes until it reduces to about 1 cup. Return the chicken feet to the wok, tossing to ensure they're evenly coated in the sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!