Taste the symphony: what does sesame chicken taste like? (hint: it’s heavenly)
What To Know
- These tiny black or white seeds are toasted and sprinkled on top of the chicken, adding a nutty crunch and a hint of bitterness.
- These spices enhance the flavor of the sauce and add a depth of flavor to the dish.
- While both dishes are popular Chinese takeout options, sesame chicken is sweeter and has a lighter sauce, while General Tso’s chicken is spicier and has a thicker, darker sauce.
Sesame chicken, a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, tantalizes taste buds with its unique and delectable flavor. Its crispy exterior, savory sauce, and subtle sweetness create a symphony of flavors that leave diners craving more.
1. Crispy Exterior
The first bite of sesame chicken introduces a satisfying crunch. The batter, typically made with cornstarch, flour, and eggs, is fried to golden perfection, forming a crispy outer shell that shatters in the mouth.
2. Savory Sauce
The sauce is the heart of sesame chicken. It is usually made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar. The soy sauce provides a salty base, while the rice vinegar adds a hint of acidity and sweetness. Sesame oil infuses the sauce with its distinctive nutty flavor.
3. Subtle Sweetness
Despite its savory nature, sesame chicken has a subtle sweetness that balances the flavors. This sweetness comes from the sugar in the sauce and the occasional addition of honey or brown sugar.
4. Sesame Seeds
No sesame chicken would be complete without the namesake sesame seeds. These tiny black or white seeds are toasted and sprinkled on top of the chicken, adding a nutty crunch and a hint of bitterness.
5. Aromatic Spices
Sesame chicken is often seasoned with a variety of spices, including garlic, ginger, and green onions. These spices enhance the flavor of the sauce and add a depth of flavor to the dish.
6. Variations
While the classic sesame chicken recipe remains popular, variations exist to cater to different tastes. Some recipes use a spicy sauce, while others incorporate vegetables such as broccoli or carrots.
7. Pairing Recommendations
Sesame chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables. It is also a popular choice for takeout and delivery orders.
The Secret to Great Sesame Chicken
Creating authentic and flavorful sesame chicken requires careful attention to the following factors:
- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality chicken and vegetables to ensure the best flavor.
- Crispy batter: The batter should be thin and crispy, not thick and doughy.
- Balanced sauce: The sauce should have a harmonious balance of salty, sweet, and savory flavors.
- Generous sesame seeds: Don’t skimp on the sesame seeds. They add a crucial layer of texture and flavor.
Health Considerations
Sesame chicken is a relatively high-calorie dish, so it is important to consume it in moderation. The fried batter and sauce can contribute to unhealthy levels of fat and sodium. However, the dish can be made healthier by using leaner cuts of chicken, baking or air-frying instead of deep-frying, and reducing the amount of sauce.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. What is the difference between sesame chicken and General Tso’s chicken?
While both dishes are popular Chinese takeout options, sesame chicken is sweeter and has a lighter sauce, while General Tso’s chicken is spicier and has a thicker, darker sauce.
2. Can I make sesame chicken at home?
Yes, it is possible to make sesame chicken at home. However, it requires some time and effort to achieve the same crispy exterior and flavorful sauce as in restaurants.
3. What are some healthy alternatives to sesame chicken?
Healthy alternatives to sesame chicken include steamed or grilled chicken with a light sauce, or stir-fried chicken with vegetables.
