Birria Wings with Consome

Introduction:
Birria wings with consomé is a mouthwatering twist on the traditional Mexican dish, birria. This flavorful and aromatic dish features chicken wings coated in a rich and spicy birria marinade, then baked until crispy and golden brown. Served alongside a savory consomé made from the same flavorful broth used to cook the birria wings, this dish is bursting with bold flavors and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Origin and Cultural Significance:
Birria is a traditional Mexican dish that originated in the state of Jalisco, although it is now enjoyed throughout Mexico and in many other parts of the world. Traditionally made with goat or beef, birria is a stew-like dish known for its rich and complex flavors, often featuring a blend of dried chilies, spices, and herbs. In recent years, birria has gained popularity in various forms, including tacos, quesabirria, and now birria wings. This innovative twist on a classic dish highlights the versatility and adaptability of Mexican cuisine.

Ingredients Quantity:
For Birria Wings:

  • Chicken wings: 2 pounds
  • Dried guajillo chilies: 4-6
  • Dried ancho chilies: 2-3
  • Onion, chopped: 1 medium
  • Garlic cloves: 4-6
  • Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
  • Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Bay leaves: 2
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Apple cider vinegar: 1/4 cup
  • Water: 2 cups
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (optional, for thicker sauce)

For Consomé:

  • Reserved birria broth
  • Chopped cilantro and onion, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Warm corn tortillas, for serving

Optional Additions:

  • Sliced radishes, for garnish
  • Diced avocado, for serving
  • Sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers, for extra heat
  • Queso fresco or Cotija cheese, crumbled, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preparing Birria Wings:
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Remove the stems and seeds from the dried guajillo and ancho chilies, then place them in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes to soften.
  • In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked chilies, chopped onion, garlic cloves, cumin seeds, dried oregano, bay leaves, salt, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, and water. Blend until smooth to create the birria marinade.
  • Place the chicken wings in a large bowl and pour the birria marinade over them, making sure they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
  • Once marinated, remove the chicken wings from the bowl and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and crispy.
  1. Preparing Consomé:
  • While the wings are baking, strain the remaining birria marinade through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids, reserving the liquid.
  • In a large pot, heat the reserved birria broth over medium heat until warmed through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • If desired, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then gradually add it to the broth while stirring constantly to thicken the consomé.
  1. Serving:
  • To serve, ladle the warm consomé into individual bowls. Garnish with chopped cilantro and onion, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
  • Arrange the baked birria wings on a serving platter and serve alongside the consomé.
  • Optionally, serve warm corn tortillas and additional garnishes such as sliced radishes, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, or crumbled cheese on the side.

Tips for Success:

  • For a deeper flavor, you can toast the dried chilies in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds before soaking.
  • Adjust the amount of dried chilies according to your desired level of spiciness.
  • Make sure to strain the birria marinade well to remove any seeds or large pieces of chili skin before using it to marinate the chicken wings.
  • To achieve crispy wings, ensure that the oven is preheated and the wings are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet without overcrowding.
  • Serve the birria wings and consomé hot for the best flavor and enjoyment.

Conclusion:
Birria wings with consomé is a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the bold flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine in a new and innovative way. Whether enjoyed as a flavorful appetizer, a hearty main course, or as part of a festive celebration, this dish is sure to impress with its rich and aromatic flavors, tender chicken wings, and comforting consomé. So gather your friends and family, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the irresistible combination of birria wings with consomé for a memorable dining experience.

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