Feng Zhua (Braised and Steamed Chicken Feet)

🧂 Ingredients

• 500 g Chicken feet
• 2 tbsp Fermented black beans
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 3 Dried chilies
• 2 tbsp Oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp Soy sauce(low-sodium recommended)
• 1 tbsp Sugar
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine(optional, for aroma)
• 1 tsp Sesame oil(for finishing)
• 2 cup Vegetable oil(for deep frying)
• 4 cup Water(for soaking and braising)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the chicken feet: Ensure the nails are trimmed and the feet are thoroughly cleaned. In a large pot, bring enough water to a boil to cover the chicken feet. Add the feet and blanch for 5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Pat them completely dry with paper towels; this is crucial for the next step.

   ⏱️ 15 minutes
2. 2

   Deep fry the chicken feet: Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a wok or deep pot over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 180°C / 350°F). Carefully add the dried chicken feet in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and slightly golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and immediately plunge into a bowl of cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or until they have plumped up and the skin has softened. Drain well.

   ⏱️ 45 minutes (including soaking)
3. 3

   Prepare the braising liquid: In a bowl, combine the mashed fermented black beans, minced garlic, chopped dried chilies (if using), oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and Shaoxing wine (if using). Stir well to create a paste.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
4. 4

   Braise the chicken feet: In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the black bean mixture and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the soaked and drained chicken feet and stir to coat them evenly with the sauce. Add enough water to almost cover the chicken feet (about 2-3 cups). Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and braise for 40-50 minutes, or until the feet are starting to become tender.

   ⏱️ 50 minutes
5. 5

   Steam the chicken feet: Transfer the braised chicken feet and their sauce to a heatproof dish. Place the dish in a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Cover and steam for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken feet are completely tender and have a gelatinous texture. The skin should be soft and easily pull away from the bone. If the water in the steamer runs low, replenish with boiling water.

   ⏱️ 60 minutes
6. 6

   Finish and serve: Carefully remove the dish from the steamer. Drizzle with sesame oil. Serve hot, encouraging guests to suck the collagen and sauce from the bones.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓The deep-frying and subsequent soaking step is crucial for achieving the characteristic blistered skin and gelatinous texture.
• ✓Ensure chicken feet are completely dry before frying to prevent oil splattering.
• ✓The final texture should be fall-apart tender, with the skin being soft and yielding.
• ✓This dish is best enjoyed by savoring the rich sauce and the collagen-rich skin.
• ✓Adjust the amount of dried chilies based on your spice preference.

🔄 Variations

• For an extra spicy version, increase the amount of dried chilies or add a pinch of chili flakes to the braising sauce.
• Add blanched peanuts to the braising liquid during the last 20 minutes of cooking for added texture and flavor.
• A touch of dark soy sauce can be added for a richer color.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving