These garlicky, gochujang-glazed wings are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, boasting a captivating blend of spicy and savory notes. This recipe offers a straightforward approach to creating flavorful wings that don't compromise on taste. The glaze itself is remarkably simple, calling for only a handful of ingredients.

The wings are initially marinated in a portion of the glaze, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, and then roasted to crispy perfection. The magic truly happens when the wings are repeatedly basted with the remaining glaze every five minutes. This continuous glazing process creates a beautifully lacquered surface, ensuring each wing is coated in a shimmering, flavorful layer.

The result is a visually stunning and utterly irresistible dish. Scoring the wings before marinating is a simple yet crucial step. It allows for deeper penetration of the marinade, infusing the meat and skin with the complex flavors of the glaze.

Gochujang, the star of this glaze, is a spicy Korean fermented pepper paste that adds a unique depth and umami richness. Its subtle heat is balanced by a touch of sweetness and a savory quality that elevates the wings to new heights. While gochujang does contain a small amount of glutinous rice, the quantity is minimal and contributes to the glaze's glossy texture.

The inclusion of Shaoxing wine, a traditional Chinese rice wine, further enhances the savory profile of the glaze. However, if needed, a suitable substitution can be made with sherry wine or michiu, ensuring the recipe remains accessible to all. The finished wings offer a delightful textural contrast.

The skin is wonderfully crisp and sticky, while the meat remains tender and juicy, saturated with the complex flavors of the gochujang glaze. Each bite is an explosion of taste, a perfect harmony of spice, sweetness, and umami that leaves you craving more. To create a cohesive and satisfying meal, consider serving these gochujang wings with complementary dishes, such as roasted bok choy or a refreshing cucumber salad.

The vibrant flavors and textures of these wings make them a perfect centerpiece for any gathering, from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations.