Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Clean and Season the Chicken

   Thoroughly clean the chicken, removing all internal organs and scraps. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix 2-3 teaspoons of salt, 0.5 teaspoon of Chinese five spice powder, and 0.5 teaspoon of white pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly all over the inside and outside of the chicken.

2. 2.Prepare the Skin Coating Solution

   In a wok or large pot, add approximately 2 large bowls of water. Add 1 tablespoon of maltose syrup and stir until it dissolves completely. Add 2 teaspoons of baking soda and stir. Add about 0.5 bowl (approx. 125ml) of white vinegar and stir. Finally, add 3 tablespoons of diluted red vinegar and stir until the solution is well combined and turns a reddish-brown color. Bring the solution to a boil.

3. 3.Bathe the Chicken

   Once the solution is boiling, insert a hook through the chicken's neck. Carefully dip the chicken into the boiling solution. Continuously ladle the hot solution over the chicken for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the entire surface is evenly coated and starts to change color.

4. 4.Air Dry the Chicken

   Remove the chicken from the solution. Hang the coated chicken in a well-ventilated area (e.g., by a window or a fan) for at least 6-8 hours, or preferably overnight, until the skin is completely dry. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.

5. 5.Deep Fry the Chicken

   Heat a generous amount of cooking oil (e.g., sunflower oil) in a wok or deep pan over medium heat (around 170-180°C). Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil. Continuously baste the chicken with hot oil using a ladle for 20-25 minutes, flipping it occasionally to ensure even cooking and browning. The chicken should turn a beautiful golden brown and the skin should be crispy.

6. 6.Rest and Carve

   Once the chicken is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the oil and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. Using a sharp cleaver, chop the chicken into desired serving pieces, such as wings, drumsticks, thighs, and breast pieces.

7. 7.Plate and Serve

   Arrange the chopped chicken pieces on a clean serving platter. Garnish with fresh celery stalks and a carved tomato for an appealing presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy skin fried chicken!