The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Delicious Chongqing-Style Chicken Feet (and why you should try it!)317

Chongqing-style chicken feet, often referred to as "feichang ji tui" (肥肠鸡腿) in Mandarin, might not sound immediately appealing to Western palates. The name itself, literally translating to "fat intestines chicken legs," can be a bit misleading. It's crucial to understand that while some versions *might* incorporate intestines (usually duck intestines), the dish's star is the incredibly flavorful and tender chicken feet. This recipe focuses on the most popular variation: a fiery, numbing, and intensely savory rendition bursting with Sichuan peppercorn's unique aroma.

Many are hesitant to try chicken feet due to their appearance, but believe me, the texture and flavor are a revelation. Properly cooked, they become incredibly soft and gelatinous, almost melting in your mouth. The sauce, a complex concoction of chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, fermented black beans, and a host of other aromatics, elevates this dish to a culinary experience unlike any other. This isn't just a snack; it's a journey for your taste buds.

What you'll need (serves 4-6):
1 lb chicken feet, cleaned and properly prepared (see preparation notes below)
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns, coarsely ground
2 dried red chilies, roughly chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, minced
1 tbsp fermented black beans, rinsed and roughly chopped
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tbsp Shaoxing rice wine (optional, adds depth of flavor)
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 cup chicken broth or water
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken Feet: This is a crucial step. Improperly prepared chicken feet will be tough and unpleasant.
Cleaning: Rinse the chicken feet thoroughly under cold water. Remove any remaining yellow skin or tendons. You can often find pre-cleaned chicken feet at Asian grocery stores, saving you this step.
Blanching: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the chicken feet and boil for 2-3 minutes. This helps to remove impurities and makes the skin cleaner. Drain and rinse again.
Optional: Cutting (for easier eating): You can cut the chicken feet into smaller pieces, making them easier to eat, especially for those unfamiliar with the dish. A cleaver works best for this.

Cooking Instructions:
Sauté Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pot over medium heat. Add Sichuan peppercorns and dried chilies. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
Add Garlic and Ginger: Add minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Add Fermented Black Beans: Stir in the fermented black beans and cook for 30 seconds.
Add Chicken Feet: Add the blanched chicken feet to the pot. Stir well to coat them with the aromatics.
Simmer: Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, Shaoxing rice wine (if using), sugar, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 45 minutes, or until the chicken feet are extremely tender. Longer simmering times (up to 1.5 hours) will result in even more tender chicken feet.
Finish and Garnish: Stir in sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Tips and Variations:
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of dried chilies to control the spiciness. For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of chili oil at the end.
Other Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with other ingredients like mushrooms, bok choy, or tofu to add more depth and texture to the dish.
Serving Suggestions: This dish is delicious served hot with rice or as part of a larger Sichuan feast. It's also great as a flavorful appetizer.
Leftovers: The flavor intensifies as the dish sits, so leftovers are even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Chongqing-style chicken feet are a unique culinary experience. The initial apprehension about the appearance fades away quickly once you taste the incredibly flavorful and tender chicken feet bathed in the complex and aromatic sauce. Don't be afraid to try something new – you might just discover your new favorite dish!

2025-03-31

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