So, you’ve got crispy, golden-brown fried turkey wings on the menu – fantastic choice! But now comes the age-old question: what sides go best with this flavorful dish? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a list of mouthwatering options that will perfectly complement your turkey wings.
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Classic Comfort Food Sides
Let’s start with the classics – the sides that always deliver that warm, comforting feeling:
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, mac and cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The richness of the cheese balances the savory flavor of the turkey wings beautifully.
- Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes, whether seasoned simply with butter and salt or loaded with garlic and herbs, are a perfect blank canvas to soak up the delicious juices from the turkey wings.
- Coleslaw: A tangy and refreshing coleslaw cuts through the richness of the fried turkey wings, providing a welcome contrast in both flavor and texture.
- Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly cornbread is a Southern staple that pairs perfectly with fried anything! Its slightly sweet flavor complements the savory turkey wings in a delightful way.
Vegetable Sides for a Balanced Meal
Looking to add some greens to your plate? These vegetable sides are both healthy and delicious:
- Green Beans: Whether steamed, sautéed, or roasted, green beans offer a fresh, vibrant counterpoint to the richness of the turkey wings. Consider adding some bacon or almonds for extra flavor and texture.
- Collard Greens: A Southern favorite, collard greens are slow-cooked to perfection and offer a slightly bitter flavor that balances the savory turkey wings.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes adds color, flavor, and nutrients to your meal. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, making them even more delicious.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy corn on the cob is a summer classic that goes well with just about anything, including fried turkey wings.
Unique and Flavorful Sides
Want to try something a little different? These unique sides will add a touch of excitement to your meal:
- Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier alternative to regular fries, sweet potato fries offer a slightly sweet and savory flavor that complements the turkey wings perfectly.
- Stuffing: Whether it’s a classic bread stuffing or a wild rice stuffing, this side dish adds a comforting and flavorful element to your meal.
- Potato Salad: A creamy and tangy potato salad is a great addition to any barbecue or picnic, and it pairs wonderfully with fried turkey wings.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that will complement the richness of the turkey wings.
Sauces to Elevate Your Turkey Wings
Don’t forget the sauces! A delicious sauce can take your fried turkey wings to the next level. Here are a few suggestions:
- Barbecue Sauce: A classic choice for fried turkey wings, barbecue sauce adds a smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Honey Mustard Sauce: The sweetness of honey and the tang of mustard create a balanced and flavorful sauce that complements the savory turkey wings.
- Hot Sauce: For those who like a little heat, hot sauce adds a fiery kick to your turkey wings.
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy and flavorful ranch dressing is a classic dipping sauce that goes well with just about anything, including fried turkey wings.
Tips for Planning Your Menu
Here are a few tips to help you plan the perfect menu for your fried turkey wings:
- Consider your guests’ preferences: Take into account any dietary restrictions or preferences your guests may have when choosing your sides.
- Balance the flavors: Aim for a balance of flavors and textures in your meal. For example, pair rich and savory turkey wings with a refreshing coleslaw or a light salad.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try new recipes and combinations to find your favorite pairings.
- Prepare ahead of time: Choose sides that can be made ahead of time to make your life easier on the day of your event.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best way to reheat fried turkey wings?
- The best way to reheat fried turkey wings is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the turkey wings on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Can I make fried turkey wings ahead of time?
- While they are best served fresh, you can fry the turkey wings ahead of time and reheat them before serving. Just be sure to store them properly in the refrigerator.
- What drinks go well with fried turkey wings?
- Iced tea, lemonade, beer, and wine are all great choices to pair with fried turkey wings.
With these side dish ideas, you’re sure to create a memorable and delicious meal centered around your star attraction: fried turkey wings! Enjoy!