How to Make Chicken Gizzards Tender Before Frying
Chicken gizzards, often overlooked in favor of more popular cuts like chicken breast or thighs, are a flavorful and nutritious part of the chicken. However, their tough texture can be off-putting to some. If you’re looking to fry chicken gizzards and want to ensure they turn out tender and delicious, follow these simple steps to make them more palatable before frying.
1. Soak the Gizzards
The first step in making chicken gizzards tender is to soak them in water. Place the gizzards in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This process helps to remove some of the impurities and tough fibers from the gizzards.
2. Change the Water
After soaking the gizzards, change the water. This is important because the first batch of water will contain a lot of impurities. Repeat the soaking process with fresh water until the water runs clear. This can take several changes, so be patient.
3. Trim and Clean
Once the gizzards have been soaked and the water runs clear, it’s time to trim and clean them. Remove any excess fat, connective tissue, and visible blood vessels. This will help to improve the texture and flavor of the gizzards.
4. Brine the Gizzards
Brining is a crucial step in making chicken gizzards tender. Create a brine solution by mixing together 1 cup of water, 1/4 cup of salt, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice. Place the gizzards in the brine and let them soak for at least 2 hours, or up to 4 hours for the best results.
5. Rest the Gizzards
After brining, remove the gizzards from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. Rest the gizzards for about 15 minutes before frying. This allows the brine to be absorbed and helps to tenderize the meat further.
6. Fry the Gizzards
Now that the gizzards are tenderized, it’s time to fry them. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C). Add the gizzards to the oil and fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and result in uneven cooking.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the gizzards are fried, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately. Your tender chicken gizzards are now ready to be enjoyed as a delicious and satisfying meal.
By following these steps, you can transform chicken gizzards into a tender and flavorful dish that will delight your taste buds. So don’t shy away from this often overlooked cut of chicken; give it a try and experience the difference a little tenderizing can make.
