How to Easily Eliminate the Fishy Smell of Chicken Feet, Use This Magical Trick and Ingredients

Kapanlagi.com - The fishy smell on chicken feet often becomes a problem when you want to process them into a delicious dish. However, this issue can be resolved by selecting the right raw materials and using the correct processing techniques. This article will discuss effective steps to eliminate the fishy smell from chicken feet, starting from selecting fresh feet to the proper boiling technique.

Many factors contribute to the fishy smell of chicken feet, ranging from feet that are not fresh to inadequate cleaning processes. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to every stage, from selection to cooking processes, to achieve clean chicken feet that are free from fishy odors.

By following the practical guide summarized by Liputan6.com from various sources, Wednesday (5/3/2025). You can enjoy the deliciousness of chicken feet without worrying about the bothersome fishy smell. Good luck and hope you succeed!

1. Why Do Chicken Feet Smell Fishy?

The fishy smell in chicken feet is generally caused by several factors. One of them is the freshness of the chicken feet themselves. Feet that are no longer fresh will produce a pungent odor. Additionally, the cleanliness of the feet also has a significant impact.

The storage process of chicken feet also plays an important role. Improper storage, such as keeping them at room temperature for too long, can accelerate the emergence of a fishy smell. Conversely, proper storage, such as in a refrigerator, can slow down this process.

Lastly, the cooking technique also matters. Inadequate cleaning or incorrect cooking methods can cause the fishy smell to persist even after the feet have been cooked. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to every detail of the processing.

2. How to Choose Fresh Chicken Feet to Avoid Odor

Choosing fresh chicken feet is the crucial first step to avoid a fishy smell. Fresh chicken feet usually have a white or slightly reddish color, a firm texture, and no odor. Avoid feet that are pale, grayish, slimy, or have an unpleasant smell.

Also, pay attention to the overall condition of the feet. Are there any damaged or bruised parts? Damaged or bruised feet are more likely to spoil quickly and smell fishy. Choose feet that are intact and without defects.

Don’t hesitate to smell the feet before buying them. Fresh feet will have a distinctive aroma, not pungent, and not fishy. If the feet emit an unpleasant odor, it’s best to avoid purchasing them.

3. Cleaning Chicken Feet Properly

After selecting fresh chicken feet, the next step is to clean them properly. First, cut the nails of the chicken feet to remove any dirt that may be stuck in that area. The dirt that clings can be a source of a fishy smell.

Wash the chicken feet thoroughly under running water. Gently scrub the feet to ensure all dirt is removed. You can also use a small brush to clean hard-to-reach areas.

After washing thoroughly, dry the chicken feet with a clean towel or paper towel. Wet feet will be more prone to odor. Dry the feet until there is no water left.

4. Baking Soda, A Magical Ingredient to Eliminate Fishy Odor from Chicken Feet

Baking soda is known for its ability to neutralize odors. You can boil the chicken feet with an additional tablespoon of baking soda in the boiling water. The alkaline properties of baking soda will help neutralize the acidic compounds that cause the fishy smell.

Boil the chicken feet in water with baking soda for 5-10 minutes. After that, discard the first boiling water and rinse the feet with clean water. The first boiling water usually contains dirt and remnants of the fishy smell.

After boiling with baking soda, the chicken feet are ready for further processing. You can continue by boiling the feet with spices or cooking them directly according to your taste.

5. Using Lime or Vinegar to Eliminate Unpleasant Odors

Besides baking soda, lime or vinegar is also effective in removing the fishy smell from chicken feet. The citric acid in lime and vinegar helps neutralize the fishy odor. Soak the chicken feet in lime juice or vinegar for 15-30 minutes.

After soaking, rinse the chicken feet with clean water. You will notice the difference in aroma before and after soaking. The feet will feel fresher and the fishy smell will be reduced.

Both lime and vinegar are effective, but some people may prefer the aroma of lime over vinegar. Choose according to your taste.

6. Boiling Technique with Spices for a More Fragrant Chicken Feet

Boiling chicken feet with spices not only removes the fishy smell but also adds a delicious aroma to the feet. Spices such as lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves are highly recommended.

After boiling the feet for 3-5 minutes, discard the first boiling water. Then, boil the feet again with clean water and spices until tender, about 30-45 minutes for regular boiling, or 10 minutes if using a pressure cooker.

The combination of spices will provide a distinctive and appetizing aroma. You can experiment with other spice combinations to suit your taste.

7. The Right Cooking Duration to Prevent Chicken Feet from Smelling Fishy

The cooking duration of chicken feet also affects their fishy smell. If using a pressure cooker, boil the chicken feet for only 10 minutes. However, if using a regular pot, the cooking time can reach 30-45 minutes, or even up to an hour to make the feet tender.

Overcooking can cause the chicken feet to fall apart. Pay attention to the texture of the feet while boiling. Once they are tender, immediately remove them from the pot.

After boiling, cool the chicken feet quickly before further processing. Rapid cooling will help maintain the freshness and tenderness of the feet.

8. Additional Tips to Keep Chicken Feet Fresh and Odor-Free

• Use coarse salt to scrub the chicken feet before washing. Coarse salt can help lift any remaining dirt and slime.
• Dry the chicken feet after washing to ensure there is no residual water that could add to the odor.

By applying all the tips above, you can enjoy the deliciousness of chicken feet without the disturbing fishy smell. Happy trying!

(kpl/khs)