Chipotle Lime Wings
15M
1H
- Makes 4 servings
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split at the joint, tips removed
- 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce from the chipotle can
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- In a large bowl, combine the chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Arrange the marinated wings on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the wings are crispy and cooked through, turning halfway through cooking.
- Remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the wings to a serving platter, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Chipotle Lime Wings: A Spicy Delight from Mexican Cuisine
History
The origins of Chipotle Lime Wings can be traced back to the rich tapestry of Mexican culinary traditions. While the exact inception of this specific dish is not well-documented, it is a modern twist on traditional Mexican flavors. The use of chipotle, a smoked and dried jalapeño pepper, has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, often used to add a smoky heat to various dishes. The addition of lime, a citrus fruit widely used in Mexican cooking, complements the smokiness of the chipotle, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This dish likely evolved as part of the growing trend of fusion cuisine, where traditional ingredients are used in innovative ways to create new and exciting dishes.
Taste Profile
Chipotle Lime Wings offer a bold and complex taste profile that is both spicy and tangy. The chipotle peppers bring a deep, smoky heat that is balanced by the bright, citrusy notes of lime. This combination creates a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and invigorating. The marinade infuses the wings with these flavors, ensuring that each bite is packed with the essence of Mexico. The wings are perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their meals, but the lime adds a refreshing twist that keeps the dish from being overwhelmingly spicy.
Cultural Significance
In Mexican cuisine, the use of chipotle and lime is deeply rooted in the country’s culinary heritage. Chipotle peppers are a testament to the ancient practice of smoking and drying peppers, a method used by indigenous peoples to preserve food and enhance flavor. Lime, on the other hand, is a versatile ingredient that is used in a variety of Mexican dishes, from salsas to marinades. The combination of these two ingredients in Chipotle Lime Wings represents a celebration of Mexico’s rich culinary traditions, showcasing how traditional flavors can be adapted to create new and exciting dishes. This dish is perfect for gatherings, embodying the communal spirit of Mexican culture where food is often shared and enjoyed with friends and family.
