Nashville - Style Hot Wings

Here’s what you will need for 4-5 servings:

• 3 Lbs. Chicken wings
• 4 Cups buttermilk
• 1/2 Cup lard
• 1 Cup flour

Master Spice Mix:

• 1/2 cup cayenne
• 6 Tbsp. Dried minced onion(or onion powder)
• 6 Tbsp. Dried minced garlic (or garlic powder)
• 6 Tbsp. Paprika
• 4 Tbsp. Brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp. Salt
• 2 Tbsp. Black pepper

Mix all master spice mix ingredients and separate into three equal portions.
In a large bowl combine 1/3 master spice mix and four cups buttermilk, and three pounds chicken wings. Cover and chill for as long as possible (4 hours to overnight).

Rinse the brined wing pieces and pat dry.
Mix one cup of flour with another 1/3 of the master spice mix. Dredge the chicken wing pieces in the flour/spice mixture, shaking off any excess. Set aside.

Heat your oil to 325˚ F / 170˚ C. Fry the wings for 8-10 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165˚ F. The wings will splatter so its a good idea to have a lid nearby! Take the wings out and drain on a paper bag or paper towels. Place 1/2 cup of lard in a saucepan and sprinkle over the last 1/3 of your master spice mix. Once the lard is melted and warm, stir the mixture, and take it off the heat. Immediately baste your fried wings with the lard/spice mix and serve right away!