What To Know
- A dash of chili flakes or black pepper can add a touch of heat and depth to the dish.
- Sesame chicken is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken, a flavorful marinade, a crispy breading, and a sweet and savory sauce.
- Sesame chicken is typically sweeter and has a lighter breading than General Tso‘s chicken, which is spicier and has a thicker, darker breading.
Sesame chicken, a beloved dish in American-Chinese cuisine, tantalizes taste buds with its sweet, savory, and crispy exterior. But what lies beneath that alluring coating? Let’s embark on a culinary exploration to uncover the true nature of this popular dish.
The Main Ingredient: Chicken
The foundation of sesame chicken is, unsurprisingly, chicken. Typically, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are used, providing a tender and juicy base for the dish.
The Flavorful Marinade
Before frying, the chicken is marinated in a flavorful mixture. This marinade usually consists of soy sauce, rice wine or Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar. The marinade infuses the chicken with umami, sweetness, and aromatic complexity.
The Crispy Breading
The crispy exterior of sesame chicken is achieved through a two-step breading process. First, the chicken is coated in a cornstarch slurry, which helps the batter adhere. Then, it is coated in a mixture of flour, cornstarch, and sesame seeds. This combination creates a crispy and golden-brown crust.
The Sweet and Savory Sauce
The signature sauce that coats sesame chicken is a delectable blend of sweetness and savory flavors. It is typically made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, ketchup, sesame oil, and garlic. The sauce is cooked until it thickens and becomes glossy, providing a flavorful coating for the chicken.
The Sesame Seeds
Of course, no sesame chicken would be complete without the namesake sesame seeds. These small, nutty seeds are sprinkled over the chicken before frying, adding a distinctive crunch and nutty flavor.
Variations and Additions
While the core ingredients of sesame chicken remain consistent, variations and additions can enhance its flavor profile. Some popular additions include:
- Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and onions are often added to sesame chicken for extra texture and nutritional value.
- Nuts: Cashews or peanuts can add a crunchy and salty contrast to the sweetness of the sauce.
- Spices: A dash of chili flakes or black pepper can add a touch of heat and depth to the dish.
Health Considerations
Sesame chicken, like many takeout dishes, can be high in calories, fat, and sodium. However, there are ways to make it a healthier choice:
- Choose grilled or steamed chicken: Opting for grilled or steamed chicken instead of fried can significantly reduce fat intake.
- Request less sauce: The sauce is a major source of calories and sodium. Ask for less sauce when ordering or use it sparingly.
- Add vegetables: Incorporating vegetables into the dish increases fiber intake and adds nutritional value.
Final Note: A Culinary Delight with a Complex Composition
Sesame chicken is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken, a flavorful marinade, a crispy breading, and a sweet and savory sauce. While it may not be the healthiest option, it remains a culinary delight that can be enjoyed in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between sesame chicken and General Tso‘s chicken?
A: Sesame chicken is typically sweeter and has a lighter breading than General Tso‘s chicken, which is spicier and has a thicker, darker breading.
Q: Can I make sesame chicken at home?
A: Yes, it is possible to make sesame chicken at home. However, it requires some preparation and cooking skills.
Q: Is sesame chicken gluten-free?
A: Traditional sesame chicken is not gluten-free due to the use of wheat flour in the breading. However, it is possible to make gluten-free sesame chicken using gluten-free flour blends.
