Chicken feet, a culinary delicacy in many cultures, often get overlooked in Western kitchens. But don't let their unassuming appearance fool you! These collagen-rich treasures offer a unique, gelatinous texture and a surprisingly savory flavor, especially when prepared with a simple salt cure. This recipe focuses on creating perfectly salted chicken feet, emphasizing ease of preparation and a foolproof method for achieving tender, flavorful results. We'll tackle the often-daunting task of bone removal with simple techniques, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable experience.
This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters and those looking to explore new culinary horizons. Whether you're adding them to a flavorful broth, enjoying them as a standalone snack, or incorporating them into a larger dish, our salted chicken feet are incredibly versatile. Ready to discover the delicious secrets of perfectly prepared chicken feet? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Spoon
- Hat (for bone removal)
Ingredients
- Chicken feet: 50g
- Ginger
- Rice: 150g
- Onion: 150g
- Salt: 1/2 tablespoon
- Lemon or Vinegar
- Water: 1 liter
- Purple onion: 3
- Lemongrass
- Cinnamon
- Star anise: 3
- Light soy sauce: 1/4 tablespoon
- MSG: 1/2 tablespoon
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Turmeric powder or fresh turmeric
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Parboil Chicken Feet
- Slice the ginger.
- Wash chicken feet with salt, lemon, and wine to remove fishy smell.
- In a pot, combine 8 chicken feet, half of the ginger, salt, lemon (or vinegar), and water. Boil for 5 minutes after it starts to boil.
- Remove chicken feet from the pot and let them cool.




Step 2. Debone the Chicken Feet
- Use a spoon or hat to remove the bones from the chicken feet. Cut the chicken feet lengthwise to make bone removal easier.

Step 3. Simmer and Season the Chicken Feet
- Cut rice and onions into pieces.
- Prepare a pot. Add the deboned chicken feet, ginger, purple onions, lemongrass, cinnamon, star anise, light soy sauce, MSG, sugar, turmeric, and water. Simmer for 2 hours.
- After 2 hours, boil for 1 minute 30 seconds. Turn off the heat and let it sit for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4. Cool and Store
- Remove chicken feet and store in the refrigerator for later consumption.

Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Don't overboil the chicken feet in the first step.
- Take your time removing the bones to avoid hand pain.
- Refrigerating the chicken feet after cooking will make them crispier.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 70-80g
- Protein: 25-30g
FAQs
1. Are chicken feet safe to eat?
Yes, when properly cleaned and cooked. Make sure to source them from reputable suppliers and cook them thoroughly to eliminate any potential bacteria.
2. How do I remove the bones easily?
This recipe uses a method of simmering the feet until tender, making the bones easier to separate from the meat. Gentle pressure and a little patience are key!
3. How long will salted chicken feet last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, salted chicken feet will generally last for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
With this simple recipe, you've unlocked the delicious potential of salted chicken feet. Enjoy the unique texture and savory flavor, whether you savor them as a snack or incorporate them into your favorite dishes. Now go forth and conquer the culinary world of chicken feet!