What To Know
- Canola oil is a light and neutral oil that can be used as a substitute for sesame oil.
- Whether you are a seasoned chef or a home cook, incorporating sesame oil into your sesame chicken recipe is a must.
- While it is not recommended, you can omit sesame oil from sesame chicken if you have an allergy or a strong aversion to its flavor.
Sesame oil is a staple ingredient in many Asian dishes, including the popular dish sesame chicken. This flavorful oil adds a nutty, aromatic flavor to the chicken, but is it really necessary for the dish? The answer is a resounding yes! Sesame oil plays a crucial role in enhancing the taste and texture of sesame chicken, making it an indispensable ingredient.
Why is Sesame Oil Important in Sesame Chicken?
Sesame oil serves several essential functions in sesame chicken:
1. Flavor: Sesame oil imparts a distinctive nutty and slightly sweet flavor to the chicken. It complements the savory sauce and adds depth to the dish.
2. Aroma: The aromatic compounds in sesame oil release a pleasant fragrance during cooking, making the dish even more appetizing.
3. Tenderizing: Sesame oil helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and succulent.
4. Crispiness: When combined with cornstarch, sesame oil creates a crispy coating that adds texture to the chicken.
How to Use Sesame Oil in Sesame Chicken
To make authentic sesame chicken, you will need to use sesame oil. Here’s how to incorporate it into your dish:
1. Marinate the chicken: Combine sesame oil with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings to create a marinade for the chicken. This will infuse the chicken with flavor.
2. Coat the chicken: Before frying, coat the marinated chicken in a mixture of cornstarch and sesame oil. This will help create a crispy coating.
3. Fry the chicken: Fry the coated chicken in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
Substitutes for Sesame Oil
While sesame oil is the preferred choice for sesame chicken, there are a few substitutes you can consider:
1. Vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a neutral substitute for sesame oil. It will not add the same flavor, but it will still provide a crispy coating.
2. Peanut oil: Peanut oil has a slightly nutty flavor that can complement the chicken. It is a good alternative if you do not have sesame oil.
3. Canola oil: Canola oil is a light and neutral oil that can be used as a substitute for sesame oil. It will not add any significant flavor to the dish.
Key Points: The Indispensable Ingredient
Sesame oil is not just an optional ingredient in sesame chicken; it is essential for creating the authentic flavor, aroma, and texture of this dish. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a home cook, incorporating sesame oil into your sesame chicken recipe is a must.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Can I use olive oil instead of sesame oil in sesame chicken?
No, olive oil is not a suitable substitute for sesame oil in sesame chicken. Olive oil has a strong flavor that will overpower the delicate flavors of the dish.
2. How much sesame oil should I use in sesame chicken?
For a pound of chicken, use about 2-3 tablespoons of sesame oil in the marinade and 1-2 tablespoons in the coating mixture.
3. Can I omit sesame oil from sesame chicken?
While it is not recommended, you can omit sesame oil from sesame chicken if you have an allergy or a strong aversion to its flavor. However, the dish will lack the characteristic nutty flavor and aroma.
4. What other dishes can I use sesame oil in?
Sesame oil is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, dressings, marinades, and even baked goods.
5. How do I store sesame oil?
Sesame oil should be stored in a cool, dark place away from heat and light. It can be kept for up to 6 months.
