To enhance the delicious experience of enjoying Pizza Hut’s New Orleans Drumettes, consider pairing them with a few simple yet flavorful sides. A tangy, crunchy coleslaw made from a mix of green and red cabbage, carrots, and a zesty mayonnaise or vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the savory wings.
Garlic bread, with its buttery, herb-infused flavors, is another mouthwatering option that complements the dish perfectly—either make a quick batch or pick some up from the store.
For a lighter, fresh option, a vegetable tray featuring crisp carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers paired with hummus adds a vibrant touch and balances the richness of the wings with a satisfying crunch.
To round out the meal, pair your drumettes with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade, which will beautifully cut through the richness of the dish and leave your palate refreshed. Now, let’s dive into the main event!
Pizza Hut’s New Orleans Drumette offers a unique taste and experience that takes chicken wings to a whole new level. Imagine perfectly marinated chicken wings infused with exotic flavors. It’s a culinary delight that is hard to resist.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about these rather exceptional drumettes—how they’re made, what makes them special, and how you can whip up a homemade version in your own kitchen.
So, gather your apron; we’re about to embark on a delicious adventure.
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What is Pizza Hut’s New Orleans Drumette?
Pizza Hut’s New Orleans Drumette is a tantalizing take on traditional chicken wings. The drumettes, which are the meaty part of the chicken wing, are marinated in a flavorful concoction of spices and sauces.
It’s deep-fried to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. The New Orleans flavor profile typically includes a blend of spicy, sweet, and savory notes that reflect the vibrant culinary culture of the region.
I remember the first time I tried them; the combination of sweet honey and sharp chili left a memorable impression. It was not just food; it was an experience!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe ticks all the right boxes: flavor, texture, and presentation. The balance of sweet and spicy in the marinade is what makes it special. The acidity from the lime juice cuts through the richness, while the multitude of spices adds a depth that can’t be ignored. Each bite transports you to the heart of New Orleans.
Plus, it’s a straightforward recipe that packs a lot of flavor. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply satisfying your cravings.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To recreate Pizza Hut’s mouthwatering New Orleans Drumette at home, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken wings, separated into drumettes and wingettes
- For the Marinade:
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 cm piece of ginger, finely grated
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1/2 lime or lemon
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar syrup
- 1 tbsp mild chili paste
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp sweet soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 200 ml coconut water
With all your ingredients sourced, let’s get cooking!
How to Make Pizza Hut New Orleans Drumette
The method to make these delightful drumettes combines marinating and frying. The key is in letting the flavors meld together beautifully. So without further ado, let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, grated ginger, light soy sauce, hoisin sauce, black pepper, lime juice, honey (or brown sugar syrup), chili paste, minced garlic, sweet soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and coconut water. This mixture is the heart of the flavor profile, so make sure everything is well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add your chicken drumettes to the marinade. Toss them well until they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—the longer, the better. Several hours or even overnight allows for deeper flavor absorption.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare for Frying
Heat your oil in a deep fryer or a large pot over medium-high heat. Preheating is critical; a good oil temperature will ensure crispy drumettes. Test the temperature with a small piece of bread—if it browns in about 60 seconds, you’re good to go.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the marinated drumettes to the hot oil in batches. Avoid overcrowding, as this will lower the oil temperature. Fry for about 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once fried, remove the drumettes and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This makes sure they retain their delightful crunch.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Serve these savory delights while they are still sizzling. Enjoy these wings hot with your favorite dipping sauce or on their own.
Tips for the Perfect New Orleans Drumette
- Marination is Key: Don’t rush this step. Allow the chicken to absorb the flavors for a few hours or overnight if possible.
- Use a Thermometer: Ensure the oil’s temperature is hot enough. Too cold, and your wings will be greasy; too hot, and they may burn.
- Rest After Frying: Let the drumettes sit for a few minutes after frying. This helps prevent sogginess.
- Experiment with Spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a bit of cayenne or smoked paprika for a kick.
- Serving Style: Garnish with chopped green onions or serve with an array of dipping sauces for variety.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover drumettes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the skin crisp while ensuring the chicken remains moist.
Nutrition Information
pizza hut new orleans drummet recipe nutrition facts
How Would I Recommend Serving Pizza Hut New Orleans Drumette?
Consider these four serving suggestions to make your drumettes the star of the table:
Buffalo Sauce Dipping: Serve with a side of spicy buffalo sauce for those who crave some heat. The zinginess cuts through the sweetness of the drumettes, creating a great balance.
Blue Cheese Dip: Pair with a creamy blue cheese dip. The richness of blue cheese complements the assertive flavors of the wing, providing a delightful contrast.
Veggie Garnish: Accompany your wings with fresh veggies like celery and carrot sticks. Not only do they add a nice crunch, but they are great for dipping too!
Beer or Wine Pairing: Offer a crisp beer or a chilled white wine alongside the dish. A lager or a Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavor experience wonderfully.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
Sometimes, you might not have all the ingredients on hand. No need to panic! Here are some easy swaps:
- Oyster Sauce: Use hoisin sauce if you don’t have oyster sauce. It will provide a similar sweetness.
- Lime Juice: Substitute lemon juice for lime if that’s what you have. The flavor difference is minimal.
- Honey: Brown sugar can replace honey in equal amounts. It will give a slightly different texture but retain sweetness.
- Coconut Water: Opt for soda water or chicken broth; both liquids work in the marinade for moisture and flavor.
Pizza Hut New Orleans Drummet Recipe
Equipment
- Large bowl
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken wings separated into drumettes and wingettes
For the Marinade:
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 cm piece of ginger finely grated
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1/2 lime or lemon
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar syrup
- 1 tbsp mild chili paste
- 4 cloves of garlic minced
- 2 tbsp sweet soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 200 ml coconut water
Instructions
- The method to make these delightful drumettes combines marinating and frying. The key is in letting the flavors meld together beautifully. So without further ado, let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a large bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, grated ginger, light soy sauce, hoisin sauce, black pepper, lime juice, honey (or brown sugar syrup), chili paste, minced garlic, sweet soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and coconut water. This mixture is the heart of the flavor profile, so make sure everything is well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Add your chicken drumettes to the marinade. Toss them well until they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—the longer, the better. Several hours or even overnight allows for deeper flavor absorption.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare for Frying
- Heat your oil in a deep fryer or a large pot over medium-high heat. Preheating is critical; a good oil temperature will ensure crispy drumettes. Test the temperature with a small piece of bread—if it browns in about 60 seconds, you’re good to go.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Carefully add the marinated drumettes to the hot oil in batches. Avoid overcrowding, as this will lower the oil temperature. Fry for about 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Drain and Serve
- Once fried, remove the drumettes and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This makes sure they retain their delightful crunch.
- Step 6: Serve Hot
- Serve these savory delights while they are still sizzling. Enjoy these wings hot with your favorite dipping sauce or on their own.
Notes
- Marination is Key: Don’t rush this step. Allow the chicken to absorb the flavors for a few hours or overnight if possible.
- Use a Thermometer: Ensure the oil’s temperature is hot enough. Too cold, and your wings will be greasy; too hot, and they may burn.
- Rest After Frying: Let the drumettes sit for a few minutes after frying. This helps prevent sogginess.
- Experiment with Spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a bit of cayenne or smoked paprika for a kick.
- Serving Style: Garnish with chopped green onions or serve with an array of dipping sauces for variety.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bake the drumettes instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Toss the marinated drumettes in a bit of oil and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier alternative.
How spicy are these drumettes?
The spice level is moderate. You can adjust the chili paste to your liking. Omit it for milder wings or add extra for a fiery kick.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out the soy sauce with gluten-free alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos to keep it gluten-friendly.
What should I do if I don’t own a deep fryer?
Using a heavy pot on the stove works perfectly fine. You can also air fry the drumettes for a healthier method.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Leftover drumettes can be frozen. Ensure they’re in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge before baking.
How long can these drumettes sit out at a party?
Any cooked food should not sit out for more than two hours to avoid food safety issues. Keep them warm or on ice if they’re for a longer gathering.
Conclusion
Pizza Hut’s New Orleans Drumettes embody something special—a blend of flavor, culture, and comfort. With the right marinade, cooking techniques, and serving ideas, you can bring this taste of New Orleans right to your kitchen.
Whether for a party, a game day, or just a casual dinner at home, these drumettes will not disappoint. Enjoy your culinary journey and, most importantly, savor every bite!
