Chicken feet might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about delicious food, but in Cantonese cuisine, they’re a true delicacy. Whether you’re trying to order them at a dim sum restaurant or simply expanding your culinary vocabulary, knowing how to say “chicken feet” in Cantonese is super helpful.
As someone who loves exploring different food cultures, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand everything about chicken feet in Cantonese – from what they’re called to how they’re prepared and eaten.
What Are Chicken Feet Called in Cantonese?
In Cantonese, chicken feet are known by several names:
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雞腳 (gai1 goek3) – This is the most common and straightforward term, directly translating to “chicken feet.”
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雞爪 (gai1 zaau2) – Another formal term that’s widely used and interchangeable with 雞腳.
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鳳爪 (fung6 zaau2) – This more poetic name literally translates to “phoenix claws” It’s commonly used on dim sum menus to make the dish sound more appealing
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雞腳仔 (gai1 goek3 zai2) – An informal, colloquial term often used in casual conversations with friends.
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雞爪包 (gai1 zaau2 baau1) – A playful, informal term that translates to “chicken feet bun.”
The terms 雞腳 (gai1 goek3) and 鳳爪 (fung6 zaau2) are the ones you’ll most commonly see on restaurant menus, especially at dim sum establishments.
A Brief History of Chicken Feet in Cantonese Cuisine
Chicken feet have been part of Chinese cuisine for centuries, with the earliest mentions dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Initially used for medicinal purposes, they were believed to nourish the body and promote health.
Over time, they transitioned from medicine to food, becoming a staple in Cantonese cooking Today, they’re an iconic part of dim sum and can be found in restaurants, street food stalls, and homes throughout Hong Kong, Guangdong, and Cantonese communities worldwide.
What Do Chicken Feet Taste Like?
If you’ve never tried chicken feet before, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. Truth is, chicken feet don’t have a strong flavor on their own – they taste somewhat like chicken, but it’s really the texture and their ability to absorb flavors that makes them special.
The texture is unique due to the high collagen content, giving them a gelatinous, slightly chewy mouthfeel that’s unlike any other part of the chicken. The skin readily absorbs the flavors of sauces and seasonings, making each bite packed with intense flavor.
Popular Cantonese Chicken Feet Dishes
Dim Sum Style: Chicken Feet in Black Bean Sauce
The most famous preparation is probably the dim sum classic – chicken feet braised in black bean sauce (豉汁鳳爪 – si6 zap1 fung6 zaau2). This dish combines the feet with fermented black beans, garlic, and other seasonings for a savory, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the gelatinous texture.
Here’s an example of how you might order this dish in Cantonese:
A: 請問你們有沒有鳳爪？(ceng2 man6 nei5 mun4 jau5 mut6 jau5 fung6 zaau2?)
B: 有的，要點幾份？(jau5 di1, jiu3 dim2 gei2 fan6?)
A: Do you have phoenix claws (chicken feet)?
B: Yes, how many servings would you like?
Other Popular Preparations Include:
- Braised Chicken Feet – Fried then simmered for hours until fork-tender
- Steamed Chicken Feet – Marinated and steamed for a lighter preparation
- Deep-Fried Chicken Feet – Crispy on the outside, gelatinous on the inside
- Cold Chicken Feet – Served as an appetizer or snack
How to Eat Chicken Feet
If you’re new to eating chicken feet, here’s a quick guide:
- Use chopsticks to grasp the chicken foot with the toes pointing toward you
- Bite between the joints and chew the skin off
- Suck the soft, collagen-rich tendons and cartilage
- Spit out the small bones
- Continue until you’ve worked your way through the entire foot
Don’t worry if it seems awkward at first – with practice, you’ll get the hang of it!
Where to Find the Best Chicken Feet
The best places to sample authentic Cantonese-style chicken feet are:
- Dim sum restaurants – Look for them on the menu or dim sum carts
- Cantonese barbecue shops – Often displayed alongside roasted meats
- Street food stalls in Hong Kong or Chinatowns
- Soup noodle joints – Sometimes featured as a main ingredient
How to Prepare Chicken Feet at Home
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try preparing chicken feet at home, here’s a simplified process:
Cleaning and Preparation:
- Remove the outer yellow skin (if not already removed)
- Rinse thoroughly under running water
- Clean between the toes and pads of the feet
- Trim off the nails using kitchen scissors
Basic Cooking Method:
- Parboil the feet for about 5 minutes, then drain
- Marinate with seasonings like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Shaoxing wine
- Braise with aromatics (garlic, ginger) and spices (star anise, bay leaves)
- Simmer until tender and flavors are absorbed
Cultural Significance
In Cantonese culture, chicken feet are more than just food – they’re considered a symbol of fortune and prosperity. The word for “feet” (腳/jiao) sounds similar to the word for “harmony” in Chinese, making them a favored dish during celebrations and family gatherings.
Regional Variations
While the terms I’ve mentioned are commonly used across Cantonese-speaking regions, there might be slight regional variations in pronunciation or usage. However, the formal terms 雞腳 (gai1 goek3) and 鳳爪 (fung6 zaau2) are widely understood throughout Cantonese-speaking areas.
Final Thoughts
Chicken feet might seem intimidating if you’re not familiar with them, but they’re a beloved delicacy in Cantonese cuisine for good reason. Their unique texture and ability to absorb flavors make them a truly special culinary experience.
Next time you’re at a dim sum restaurant, why not be adventurous and order a plate of 鳳爪 (fung6 zaau2)? You might just discover a new favorite dish!
I still remember my first time trying chicken feet – I was super hesitant but after that first bite, I was totally hooked on the rich, gelatinous texture and the intense flavor of the black bean sauce. Now, no dim sum outing feels complete without them!
FAQ About Chicken Feet in Cantonese
What is the proper name for chicken feet?
Chicken feet can be referred to as either “chicken feet” or “chicken paws.” In Cantonese, the most common terms are 雞腳 (gai1 goek3) and 鳳爪 (fung6 zaau2).
Why are chicken feet called phoenix claws?
The term “phoenix claws” (鳳爪/fung6 zaau2) is used because it sounds more appealing and elegant than simply “chicken feet.” This poetic name elevates the dish and makes it sound more appetizing on restaurant menus.
Are chicken feet healthy?
Chicken feet are rich in collagen, which some believe benefits skin, joint, and bone health. They’re also a good source of protein and calcium.
How do I choose good quality chicken feet?
Look for chicken feet that aren’t overly dehydrated, discolored, or yellowed. Each piece should be approximately the same size and have a fresh appearance.
Chinese cuisine[]
In Chinese cuisine, chicken feet are often an option at dim sum restaurants, served as “phoenix talons.” The chicken feet are deep fried or steamed first in order to make them puffy before being stewed and simmered in a sauce flavoured with black fermented beans, bean paste and sugar. Sometimes duck feet are used in dim sum instead of chicken feet. Duck feet with mustard, which is often served with vinegar, fresh green pepper and crushed garlic, is a popular salad/appetizer.
Other names[]
- Fengzhua
- Fung jao
- Fenghuang claws
- Phoenix talons