First Vortex Cook - Crispy Wings

[voltronic]

I finally decided to join the Vortex* trend today, and it worked beautifully. Wings seem to be one of the go-to things for this little ring of sheet metal, so that's what I did in my standard 22" kettle.

Just a very simple rub of salt, pepper, garlic, onion, and paprika. Full chimney of Royal Oak lump which filled the vortex about halfway, and I tossed a chunk of pecan on top to give the meat some more flavor.

Never have I seen the thermometer on the Weber fly up so fast! It stabilized at around 525-550 but I kind of expected it to go hotter (not like that thing is accurate, though).

Flipped the wings after 20 minutes (first image), added kielbasa. Cooked another 30 or so. I probably should have pulled the wings about 10 minutes earlier than I did, but I wanted mega-crispy. I was not disappointed. Some of the crispiest chicken skin I've had, and the pecan added a gentle smokiness. Absolutely delicious. The kielbasa really took on a lovely flavor as well.

*Not specifically THE Vortex, as I think it's overpriced for what it is. This is what I actually bought. It it quite heavy-gauge and the welds seem solid.

Long story short - This is the best grilling accessory I've ever used. Next up will be some 40-minute ribs later this week.

 

[JLeonard]

Kettle + Vortex (or generic) = Wing machine.
And that handle will get scorching hot too.

Jim

 

[jaxgatorz]

You have a wing cooking machine now !!

 

[DRKsmoking]

Love me some crispy wings, and your look great

David

 

[2-7]

Wings + kielbasa! Looking good!

 

[SmokingUPnorth]

Wings look great. I love mine. Like you said for what it is it’s a little pricy, but I’ve had mine for about 6 years and probably over 100 uses and shows no signs of giving up anytime soon.

 

[halleoneagain]

Kettle + Vortex (or generic) = Wing machine.

Truer words can't be spoken! I too am thrilled with my Vortex for wings, they just can't be beat. And now I'll have to try throwing on some kielbasa next time, yours looks so good.