There are many ways in which KFC is disappointingly average. The chicken can be greasy, the fries are mushy and the coleslaw often looks like it was scooped from the inside of a shampoo bottle. There is one reason, and one reason only, for going back to the Colonel time and time again. Say what you will about his sides, the man makes some mighty delicious chicken skin.
As Cartman proved way back in South Park Season Nine, the coating from a KFC bucket is enough to turn close friends into mortal enemies and send fellow diners mad with jealousy. The combination of satisfying crunch and indefatigable blend of 11 secret herbs and spices is the sole reason the KFC has conquered the global chicken industry. It will cure hangovers and heal heartbreak. It is delicious.
For a long time, the only way for chicken-skinheads to get their hands on the good stuff has been through the conduit of breast and thigh. While this is hardly an inconvenience, since meat and coating united are always a force to be reckoned with, it is still slightly frustrating for picky skin lovers. Now however, it looks like the top dogs have decided it’s high time that they cut out the fleshy middle man and gave the people what they really want.
According to multiple reports, the chain have begun trialling bags of crispy fried chicken skin at select locations. Judging by activity on the company’s social media, the new item consists of “salt and pepper” seasoned skin pieces, served in what looks like the same style as their fries. Cartman’s prayers have finally been answered.
As revealed on Twitter, the new product will be made available across six locations across Indonesia, in MT Haryono, Salemba, Cideng, Kemang, Kalimalang and Kelapa Gading. Though this will no doubt be disappointing for American and European audiences, the move nonetheless suggests that KFC are heading in the right direction.
Already, the internet is full of early reviews from Indonesian chicken fans, who seem to be largely positive about the product. One Twitterer revealed that “it tastes spicy savory,” adding, “It's different to what you'd expect as it's not the same as normal chicken skin, but the first bite is good. It's really crisp and crunchy! I'll definitely order again as a snack.” However, some customers have been reported claiming that the skin is “too salty”, suggesting that it maybe more divisive than it seems. Time will tell whether the rest of KFC’s fanbase will get a chance to sample it for themselves.
This article first appeared on TwistedFood.co.uk and was shared with permission.