Shanghai Sauce
A savory Shanghai-style sauce with soy, honey, and spices that adds a flavorful kick to crispy chicken wings, perfect for casual gatherings and snack lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare chicken wings as usual and fry in oil until done.
- Mix soy sauce, cayenne pepper, powdered garlic, honey, and ginger to make the sauce.
- Toss the fried chicken wings in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken wings in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before frying. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper or substitute with paprika. You can also use tamari for a gluten-free option. Consider adding sesame oil for a nutty twist, or incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a colorful side, similar to Zucchini Chinese Style.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the wings hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added texture. These wings pair perfectly with steamed rice or a side of Lo Mein (Beef Or Chicken). For a full meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or some crispy vegetables, making it a delightful spread for family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Shanghai sauce chicken wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the wings in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, ensuring they remain juicy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shanghai Sauce contains roughly 123 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1040mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat with this sauce?
Absolutely! This Shanghai sauce works well with chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats may require varying amounts of time to cook through.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) while cooking it on the stovetop. Bring it to a simmer, and the sauce will thicken nicely, coating the wings more effectively.
Is this dish spicy?
The spiciness largely depends on the amount of cayenne pepper used. For a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne or substitute it with a less spicy seasoning. The honey also helps balance the heat, adding a touch of sweetness to the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).