What To Know
- The email claimed that a disgruntled employee at a Chinese restaurant had revealed the use of rat meat as a cheap substitute for chicken.
- Orange chicken, on the other hand, is typically made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are cut into bite-sized pieces and coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce.
- The rumor that orange chicken is made of rats is a baseless myth that has been perpetuated by the internet.
Introduction:
The tantalizing aroma of orange chicken has captivated taste buds worldwide, but a persistent rumor has cast a shadow over its delectable appeal: is orange chicken made of rats? This blog post delves into the origins of this myth and uncovers the truth behind this culinary enigma.
The Genesis of the Myth
The rumor that orange chicken contains rat meat can be traced back to the early 2000s, when a hoax email circulated online. The email claimed that a disgruntled employee at a Chinese restaurant had revealed the use of rat meat as a cheap substitute for chicken.
Examining the Evidence
To debunk this myth, let’s examine the facts:
- Physical Characteristics: Rat meat is darker and coarser in texture than chicken, and it has a distinct gamey odor. Orange chicken, on the other hand, is typically made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are cut into bite-sized pieces and coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce.
- Nutritional Value: Rat meat is a poor source of protein and contains high levels of fat and cholesterol. Orange chicken, in contrast, is a relatively lean protein source with moderate levels of fat and cholesterol.
- Production Practices: The vast majority of orange chicken is produced by reputable food manufacturers who follow strict quality control standards. The use of rat meat would be a major violation of these standards and could result in severe legal consequences.
Debunking the Myth
Based on the available evidence, it is clear that the rumor of orange chicken being made of rats is false. Orange chicken is made with chicken, not rats. The myth likely originated from a hoax that was perpetuated by the internet.
The Origin of Orange Chicken
Orange chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the 1970s. The dish is made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are coated in a batter and then fried. The chicken is then tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce.
Nutritional Value of Orange Chicken
Orange chicken is a relatively high-calorie dish, but it also contains a moderate amount of protein. The dish is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium. However, it is important to note that orange chicken is also high in sodium and fat.
Conclusion: Dispelling the Myth
The rumor that orange chicken is made of rats is a baseless myth that has been perpetuated by the internet. Orange chicken is made with chicken, not rats. The myth likely originated from a hoax that was perpetuated by the internet.
FAQ
Q: Is it true that orange chicken is made of rats?
A: No, orange chicken is made with chicken, not rats. The myth that orange chicken is made of rats is a hoax.
Q: What is orange chicken made of?
A: Orange chicken is made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are coated in a batter and then fried. The chicken is then tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce.
Q: Is orange chicken healthy?
A: Orange chicken is a relatively high-calorie dish, but it also contains a moderate amount of protein. The dish is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium. However, it is important to note that orange chicken is also high in sodium and fat.
