Ohio Country Journal: watermelon chicken wings

Who We Are

The past few years, the area where I live, Crawford County, Ohio, has seen a wonderful explosion of younger families who are embracing the joys and challenges of living off the land. Because of them, amazing things are happening which have been embraced by our community. Farmer’s markets have been created and on-farm stores have opened. Families dedicated to growing organic produce and naturally raised meats are meeting the public’s needs for locally raised foods. And at the heart of this movement are the women.

Ohio Country Journal is my attempt to share the essence of farm life, focusing on, but not limited to, women. My goal is to bring you into our circle of friendship by inviting you to share your stories and experiences with us. You don’t have to be a full time country woman to benefit from joining us; you just have to be you.

The full-time country women featured in Ohio Country Journal are an inspiration to anyone who dares to follow her dreams, whether it is to live in the country or to bring the country life-style to their urban neighborhoods.

Sunday, May 5, 2013

Grilling Season : A New Idea for Wings

Spring had a good idea this year; by being (fashionably?) late, we appreciate it more. Most of us are chompin' at the bit for outdoor activities before Summer's heat drives us back inside again.

And, around these parts, I have NEVER seen Red-bud trees look as magnificent as they do this year.

It won't last long, though. Today it is "snowing" again...snowing blossoms from trees, that is. But it's a lovely kind of "snow", warm and fragrant, setting the stage for a relaxing Sunday meal outside.

I popped over to Noel's website, apronfreecooking.com/ to see if she had any thoughts on this subject that I could "borrow" for today's post. As usual, she did not disappoint. Here is a recipe she posted for grilled chicken wings.

I am intrigued by this recipe. I mean, chipotle, maple and watermelon together? Sounds interesting..and the picture...well, it is "worth a thousand words", so I'll stop typing now :)

Marcheta *something borrowed, something new

P.S. the recipe says that you can use a "light version" of maple syrup. To me, this means 'fake'. When I make the recipe I will use Pure Ohio Maple Syrup that I buy from local producers. Ain't nothin' like the real thing, baby!

Chipotle Maple Citrus Watermelon Wings

Ingredients

Watermelon Glaze:

2 cups watermelon puree
Juice from 3 fresh lemons
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 cup maple syrup (can use light version)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper, or to taste

Chicken:

Chicken wings or drumettes
2 cups pineapple juice
1/2 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
3 cloves minced fresh garlic

Preparation

To prepare the watermelon glaze, simmer ingredients together in a heavy saucepan for 20 minutes or until sauce is thick. Makes 2 cups. Keep warm.
To prepare the chicken, place the chicken in a large zipper lock bag with rest of the ingredients and seal tightly. Allow to marinate at least 2 hours or up to 12. Grill until cooked and arrange on a warm platter. Pour the glaze over the chicken and serve immediately.

SOURCE:
National Watermelon Promotion Board