Chinese Pickled Chicken Feet

If you are feeling adventurous in the kitchen and want to try a unique dish that captures the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine, then you must give Chinese Pickled Chicken Feet a try. Despite their unusual appearance, pickled chicken feet are beloved for their delightful combination of savory and tangy flavors. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and yields a deliciously tender and flavorful dish that will impress your friends and family.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken feet, cleaned and nails removed
– 1 cup rice vinegar
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 4 slices of ginger
– 2 cloves of garlic, smashed
– 2-3 dried red chilies (optional)
– 1 star anise
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns
– Water
– Salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken feet by thoroughly cleaning them under cold running water. Trim any excess skin and remove the nails if they are still attached. Using a knife, make a small slit at the base of each claw to allow the flavors to penetrate.

2. In a large pot, blanch the chicken feet in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes to remove any impurities. Drain and rinse the feet under cold water.

3. In the same pot, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, ginger slices, garlic cloves, dried red chilies (if using), star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns. Add enough water to cover the chicken feet. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Add the cleaned chicken feet to the pot, making sure they are submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken feet simmer gently for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

5. Once the chicken feet are cooked, turn off the heat and let them cool in the liquid. Once at room temperature, transfer the chicken feet and the pickling liquid to a container with a lid. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop.

6. Serve the Chinese Pickled Chicken Feet cold as an appetizer or as a side dish. They are traditionally enjoyed with a cold beer or a hot bowl of rice porridge.

These pickled chicken feet make a fantastic addition to any Asian-inspired meal or as a unique snack for a gathering with friends. Don’t be intimidated by their appearance—the taste is both savory and slightly tangy, making them a surprisingly addictive treat. Give this recipe a try and impress your guests with your culinary skills and adventurous spirit. Enjoy!