Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

• chicken wings2 lbs

  (split, tips removed, towel-dried)

• water↗
• kosher salt↗1⁄2 cup
• vegetable oil↗

  for frying

• honey↗1⁄2 cup
• ketchup↗1⁄4 cup
• dark soy sauce↗1⁄3 cup
• apple cider vinegar↗3 tablespoons
• garlic cloves↗5

  minced, 5

• ground black pepper↗1⁄4 teaspoon
• cayenne pepper↗1⁄8 teaspoon

  (optional)

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Brine the wings in a covered container by first dissolving kosher salt in cold water. Make sure there is enough water to cover the wings. Refrigerate the wings and salt solution for 4-6 hours maximum.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, make the sauce: Combine the honey, ketchup, dark soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, black pepper and cayenne in a small saucepan. Simmer on low for 15 minutes to thicken. Set aside.

3. 3

   After the wings are done brining, heat the oil in a deep fryer to 320°F.

4. 4

   Drain the wings and dry them with paper towel. When the oil reaches the desired temperature, fry the wings a batch at a time (about 10-12 wings together will be best). Depending on the size of your wings, cooking time will vary from 10-15 minutes (check for doneness, even if wings seem pale they may be cooked through).

5. 5

   Remove wings from the fryer and place in a large bowl. Add 2 tbsp of the sauce and toss the wings to coat evenly. Add more sauce if needed, but start with a little at a time. Continue frying up remaining wings and repeat this step.

6. 6

   Serve with napkins, as these get your fingers sticky!