Ready in a jiffy! quick and easy pakistani chicken drumsticks recipe for busy weeknights

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Pakistan with our mouthwatering chicken drumsticks recipe. This culinary masterpiece will transport you to the bustling streets of Karachi, where street vendors entice with their aromatic offerings. With a blend of spices and a touch of tang, our recipe promises an unforgettable dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1 kg chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the chicken drumsticks, yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the cold water while whisking until a smooth batter forms.

3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess. Dip each drumstick into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.

4. Fry the Drumsticks: Heat a deep fryer or large saucepan filled with vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Carefully drop the coated drumsticks into the hot oil and fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried drumsticks from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or raita.

Tips for Perfection

• Marinate the chicken for as long as possible. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in more flavorful drumsticks.
• Use fresh spices. Ground spices lose their potency over time, so it’s best to use fresh spices for optimal flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the fryer. Frying too many drumsticks at once will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy drumsticks.
• Serve with a variety of dipping sauces. This will allow your guests to customize their dining experience.

Variations

• Spicy Drumsticks: Add an extra teaspoon of red chili powder to the marinade for a fiery kick.
• Tangy Drumsticks: Squeeze an additional tablespoon of lemon juice into the marinade for a brighter flavor.
• Baked Drumsticks: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the coated drumsticks for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Health Benefits

Chicken drumsticks are a good source of:

• Protein: Essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Iron: Important for red blood cell production.
• Zinc: Supports immune function and wound healing.
• Vitamin B12: Essential for nerve function and brain health.

How to Choose the Right Chicken Drumsticks

When selecting chicken drumsticks, look for:

• Plump and firm: Avoid drumsticks that are thin or have a lot of loose skin.
• No bruises or discolorations: These could indicate spoilage or damage.
• Fresh smell: Drumsticks should have a mild, fresh smell.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store cooked chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Store cooked chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Thawing

• Refrigerator: Thaw chicken drumsticks in the refrigerator overnight or for several hours.
• Microwave: Defrost chicken drumsticks in the microwave on the defrost setting, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

“Wrap Up”

Our Pakistani chicken drumsticks recipe is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds. With its perfect blend of spices and tang, it’s a dish that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want to enjoy a delicious meal, give this recipe a try and prepare to be amazed.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

A: Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for drumsticks in this recipe. The cooking time may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.

Q: What can I serve with chicken drumsticks?

A: Chicken drumsticks can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as rice, potatoes, vegetables, or salads.

Q: How do I make a dipping sauce for chicken drumsticks?

A: You can make a simple dipping sauce by mixing ketchup, mayonnaise, and a dash of your favorite spices.