Description

Imagine biting into a succulent chicken wing, only to be met with an explosion of rich, deep, and spicy flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Mexican cuisine. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with Birria Wings with Consomé. This dish is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that blends the beloved traditional Mexican dish, Birria, with the universally adored chicken wing. Perfect for any occasion, these wings are a show-stopper at gatherings and a delightful surprise for your taste buds.

Birria, traditionally made with goat or beef, originates from the Mexican state of Jalisco. It’s a hearty stew, slow-cooked until the meat is tender and infused with a blend of chiles, herbs, and spices. The consomé, a rich broth created during the cooking process, is often served alongside or as a dipping sauce, enhancing the experience with every sip. By marrying this robust, flavorful dish with the crispy, juicy texture of chicken wings, you get a fusion that is both innovative and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of chicken wings
• 5 dried guajillo chiles
• 2 dried ancho chiles
• 2 dried pasilla chiles
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 1 tablespoon of Mexican oregano
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 4 cups of water
• For the Consomé:
• The remaining marinade after soaking
• 2 cups of beef or chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Preparation Method

Prepare the Chiles: Start by removing the stems and seeds from the dried guajillo, ancho, and pasilla chiles. Toast the chiles lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as this can add bitterness to the marinade.
Soak and Blend: Place the toasted chiles in a bowl and pour hot water over them, letting them soak for about 15 minutes until they soften. Once softened, blend them with garlic, Mexican oregano, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, apple cider vinegar, salt, and sugar. Blend until you have a smooth paste.
Marinate the Wings: Coat the chicken wings thoroughly with the birria marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.

Cooking the Wings

Bake or Fry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the wings are crispy and fully cooked. Alternatively, you can fry the wings in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
Prepare the Consomé: While the wings are cooking, pour the remaining marinade into a pot. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust the seasoning with salt and a touch of vinegar to brighten the flavors.

Serving the Wings

Garnish and Serve: Serve the wings hot, with the consomé on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. The combination of the crispy, spicy wings with the rich, savory consomé is nothing short of spectacular.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip: Achieving the Perfect Crisp

For wings that are extra crispy, consider this tip: After marinating, place the wings on a wire rack and let them air-dry in the refrigerator for about an hour before cooking. This drying step helps the skin to crisp up beautifully when baked or fried. Additionally, if you choose to bake the wings, brushing them with a little oil before placing them in the oven can enhance the crispiness and give them a beautiful golden color.
Conclusion

Birria Wings with Consomé is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and cultures. By combining the bold, spicy essence of traditional birria with the universally loved chicken wing, you create a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy. Whether you’re hosting a game day, a family gathering, or simply craving something new and exciting, these wings are the perfect choice. Don’t forget to dip them in the consomé for that extra hit of flavor that ties the whole experience together. Enjoy this delicious fusion, and let each bite remind you of the rich culinary traditions that inspired it.