Buffalo Lolli-Popcorn
Smoked Chicken Wing Lollipops Glazed with Vinegar Buffalo Sauce and Celery Leaves
1 hour 30 minutes
Serves 4
AppetizerAmericanGluten-freeNut-freeShellfish-freeSoy-freeLow Carb
Herb's take
Classic Buffalo wings get the fairground treatment: smoky, juicy, and transformed into fun-to-eat lollipops. You'll master the lollipop butchering technique and learn why sharp, vinegary sauce clings best to crisped skin.
Equipment needed
- Smoker or grill
- Wire rack
- Rimmed baking sheet
Ingredients
Yield
4
Instructions
- 01Prepare the chicken wings: Using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, separate the drumette and flat at the joint. For each piece, cut around the thin end, scrape the meat down toward the thick end, and push the meat to form a 'lollipop' with bone as a handle. Discard wing tips or save for stock.
- 02In a large bowl, toss the wing lollipops with kosher salt, baking powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- 03Arrange the wings on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet. Place uncovered in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to air-dry while you prepare the smoker or grill.
- 04Preheat your smoker (or set up a charcoal grill for indirect heat) to maintain a steady 250°F. Add a small chunk of mild wood (like apple or cherry) for smoke if using a grill.
- 05Smoke the wings over indirect heat for 45-55 minutes, until the skin is deeply rendered and the meat is tender but not falling off the bone.
- 06Increase smoker or grill heat to medium-high (around 425°F), or transfer wings to a preheated oven at 425°F. Cook for 10-15 minutes more, turning once, until the skin is very crisp and browned.
- 07While the wings finish, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in hot sauce, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Remove from heat once combined.
- 08Transfer crispy wings to a large bowl. Pour the hot sauce mixture over them, tossing to coat thoroughly.
- 09Pile the sauced lollipop wings onto a platter and scatter with torn celery leaves. Serve immediately, napkins required.
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