Wings, Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Fried Cabbage

Indulge in a classic comfort food feast with this mouthwatering trio: crispy chicken wings, creamy loaded mashed potatoes, and savory fried cabbage. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this meal brings together a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Get ready to enjoy a hearty and satisfying plate of deliciousness!

Ingredients

For the Wings:

• 2 lbs chicken wings (crispy and juicy)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (for color)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (for depth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (for seasoning)
• Vegetable oil, for frying (crispy texture)

For the Loaded Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed (for a creamy base)
• 1/2 cup milk (for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (for tanginess)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for richness)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for cheesiness)
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (for crunch)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for freshness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (for seasoning)

For the Fried Cabbage:

• 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded (main ingredient)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for sautéing)
• 1/2 onion, chopped (for flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (for aroma)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (for seasoning)

Directions

For the Wings:

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the chicken wings in the flour mixture.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
4. Fry wings in batches for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

For the Loaded Mashed Potatoes:

1. Boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
2. Mash potatoes with milk, sour cream, and butter until smooth.
3. Stir in cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For the Fried Cabbage:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add shredded cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Season with caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calorie Count: Approximately 600 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Wings: Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for extra heat.
• Cheesy Potatoes: Mix in additional cheese varieties like mozzarella or parmesan.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate other vegetables into the fried cabbage, such as bell peppers or carrots.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers. The wings and mashed potatoes can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, while the fried cabbage should be used within 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. For crispy wings, reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes will help restore some of their crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces, but the cooking time may need adjustment.
2. How can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
   Prepare and store the mashed potatoes in the refrigerator. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
3. Can I use other types of cheese for the mashed potatoes?
   Absolutely! Try gouda, pepper jack, or any cheese you like for a different flavor.
4. What is the best way to ensure the cabbage is properly caramelized?
   Cook the cabbage over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and allow it to brown slightly for a deeper flavor.
5. How do I make the wings spicier?
   Add more paprika, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture.
6. Can I bake the wings instead of frying them?
   Yes, bake the wings at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
7. How can I make the mashed potatoes creamier?
   Increase the amount of milk or butter, or add a splash of cream.
8. Can I freeze any of these dishes?
   Yes, you can freeze the wings and mashed potatoes. The cabbage may become slightly soggy after freezing and reheating.
9. What’s a good side dish to pair with this meal?
   A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement the meal nicely.
10. Can I use a different type of cabbage?
    You can use Napa or savoy cabbage as alternatives, though the flavor and texture may vary.

Conclusion

This hearty combination of Wings, Loaded Mashed Potatoes, and Fried Cabbage is a crowd-pleaser that brings together classic comfort food flavors. With crispy wings, creamy mashed potatoes, and savory cabbage, it’s a meal that satisfies both the heart and the stomach. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this delicious trio will become a staple on your menu. Enjoy every flavorful bite!