#6 DRY FRY SOME WINGS
I cannot count the number of buffalo wings I've consumed in the last 2 weeks--those savory drummettes have become comfort food for a few of us friends needing to end a stressful week on a high note, or wanting to celebrate a job well done. And so without a flinch, I agreed tonight to accept an invitation to sample what is supposed to be the finest chicken wings this side of town.
Ok, so granted the wings at San Tung Chinese Restaurant aren't exactly buffalo-style, they certainly rank among the best wings I've ever savored. The menu spells out the secret: these wings are dry fried, which my sister Eileen clarifies is a process that renders out the fat in the skin while preserving the chicken's flavorful juices within. The result is a crust that's amazingly c-r-r-a-c-k-l-y. The texture is enhanced by a sugary glaze poured over the scorching meat, crystallizing slightly to add to the crunch, and coating the wings with a sweet, zesty, spicy layer of heaven.
It is no wonder long queues form by the restaurant's door along Irving Street. Everyone is lining up to feast on this dish, and every table has plates of wings devoured to their dry bones.
Too bad my friends aren't here to share the meal.
San Tung is at 1031 Irving Street, San Francisco, CA 94122.