Smoky Beetroot Wings with Chili-Garlic Glaze Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a game-changing appetizer that’s bursting with bold flavors and vibrant color, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: Smoky Beetroot Wings with Chili-Garlic Glaze. These plant-based wonders take humble beetroot wedges, coat them in a smoky, spiced batter, and roast them to perfect crispiness before slathering in a luscious chili-garlic glaze that brings just the right kick. The result is a dish that feels indulgent and exciting, yet entirely wholesome and vegan — a total showstopper whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something uniquely delicious at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect balance in Smoky Beetroot Wings with Chili-Garlic Glaze is all about simplicity and quality in your ingredients. Each element plays a key role, from the smoky paprika infusing warmth to the tangy chili-garlic sauce adding that signature heat, while the rice flour ensures a light, crisp coating that lets the beet’s natural earthiness shine through.

• 3 medium beets, peeled and cut into wedges: The star ingredient, offering vibrant color and natural sweetness.
• ½ cup rice flour: Creates a light, gluten-free batter that crisps beautifully in the oven.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: Injects a deep smoky flavor that complements the beet perfectly.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: A subtle hint of garlicky warmth in the batter.
• ½ cup oat milk: Adds moisture to the batter while keeping everything vegan.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for roasting, helps achieve that crisp, caramelized exterior.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce: Grounds the chili-garlic glaze with a savory umami depth.
• 2 tbsp chili-garlic sauce: The fiery soul of the glaze, delivering heat balanced with tang.
• 1 tbsp maple syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness that mellows the spice and enhances caramelization.
• Salt to taste: Brings all the flavors together perfectly.

How to Make Smoky Beetroot Wings with Chili-Garlic Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Batter and Preheat Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C. While it warms, whisk together the rice flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and oat milk to build a smooth, light batter that will wrap around the beet wedges for that signature crispy crust. The batter’s balance is key here — you want it thick enough to cling, but still airy.

Step 2: Coat and Roast the Beet Wedges

Dip each beet wedge generously into the batter ensuring all sides are well covered. Arrange the coated wedges on a parchment-lined tray and give them a light brush of olive oil to encourage even roasting and a beautiful golden finish. Roast for 30 minutes in the oven, and remember to flip the wedges halfway through so each side crisps to perfection while the beet stays tender inside.

Step 3: Create the Chili-Garlic Glaze

While your beet wings roast, combine the soy sauce, chili-garlic sauce, and maple syrup in a small saucepan. Gently simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes until it thickens into a glossy, irresistible glaze that perfectly balances heat and sweetness. This step is where the wings earn their fiery signature flavor.

Step 4: Toss and Final Bake

Once the initial roasting is complete, toss the beet wings in the warm chili-garlic glaze until each piece is lavishly coated. Return them to the oven for an extra 10 minutes to caramelize the glaze, creating that sticky, mouthwatering finish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

How to Serve Smoky Beetroot Wings with Chili-Garlic Glaze

Garnishes

To enhance the stunning looks and add a burst of fresh texture, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or scatter vibrant microgreens atop the wings. A drizzle of any leftover glaze artistically applied on a dark serving platter intensifies the visual drama and complements the smoky flavor.

Side Dishes

These Smoky Beetroot Wings with Chili-Garlic Glaze pair beautifully with crunchy, vibrant side dishes. Think crisp cucumber salad, zesty lime slaw, or even some cool avocado crema to tamper the heat. A bowl of fluffy quinoa or steamed jasmine rice works wonders as well, helping balance the complexity of flavors on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your wings on skewers or arrange them in a circular pattern around a bowl of vegan ranch dip. Another idea is to layer them over a bed of fresh greens and roasted nuts for a sophisticated appetizer platter that looks as good as it tastes. The vibrant red of the beets makes for a colorful, eye-catching presentation every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The wings will keep their flavor, though the coating may lose some crispness. To enjoy again, consider reheating gently in the oven to help restore crispness rather than microwaving.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead of time, these wings freeze well. Place cooled beet wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen wings will keep for up to 1 month.

Reheating

For best texture and flavor, thaw frozen wings in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes. This method re-crisps the edges and brings the chili-garlic glaze back to that luscious sticky finish.

FAQs

Can I use other root vegetables instead of beets?

Absolutely! While beets provide a unique earthiness and vibrant color, you can experiment with sweet potatoes or carrots for a different but equally delicious twist on this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the use of rice flour in the batter makes it naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your chili-garlic sauce and soy sauce are gluten-free brands if you have dietary restrictions.

How spicy are the Smoky Beetroot Wings with Chili-Garlic Glaze?

The glaze packs a moderate spice that’s balanced by the sweetness from maple syrup. If you prefer milder flavors, simply reduce the chili-garlic sauce or swap in a gentler version.

Can I air-fry the wings instead of roasting?

Definitely! Air frying at 200°C for about 15-20 minutes (flipping halfway) works well and can give an even crispier texture while reducing cooking time.

Do I need to peel the beets before cooking?

Peeling the beets ensures a smoother texture and better batter adhesion, but if you prefer, you can scrub them well and roast unpeeled for a more rustic feel.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say these Smoky Beetroot Wings with Chili-Garlic Glaze will become one of your most requested dishes once you’ve tried them. Vibrant, spicy, and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for impressing guests or simply turning a weeknight meal into something special. Give them a go and watch how these bold bites steal the spotlight on your table!