Hack the kitchen: discover the hidden path to sesame chicken without cornstarch!

Sesame chicken is a beloved dish that tantalizes taste buds with its crispy exterior and sweet and savory sauce. Traditionally, cornstarch is used as a thickening agent to achieve that irresistible crunch. However, for those with dietary restrictions or a preference for a healthier option, the question arises: can you make sesame chicken without cornstarch? The answer is a resounding yes! This blog post will guide you through the delectable journey of creating this classic dish without cornstarch, unlocking a world of culinary possibilities.

Ingredients for Sesame Chicken Without Cornstarch

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic powder, ginger powder, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Coating

In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs. Remove the chicken from the marinade and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.

3. Fry the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or deep fryer with enough vegetable oil to cover the chicken. When the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), carefully add the chicken pieces in batches. Fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Make the Sesame Sauce

While the chicken is frying, prepare the sesame sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and drain it on paper towels. Add the chicken to the sesame sauce and stir to coat evenly.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle sesame seeds over the sesame chicken and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips for Success

• For a crispier coating, double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the egg mixture twice.
• If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers.
• To check if the chicken is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the piece. It should read 165°F (74°C).
• If the sesame sauce is too thick, add a little water or chicken broth to thin it out.
• You can use other sauces to coat the chicken, such as honey garlic sauce or orange sauce.

Variations on Sesame Chicken Without Cornstarch

• Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sesame sauce for a kick.
• Honey Sesame Chicken: Replace the brown sugar with honey in the sesame sauce for a sweeter flavor.
• Orange Sesame Chicken: Add a tablespoon of orange juice and a teaspoon of orange zest to the sesame sauce for a citrusy twist.
• Teriyaki Sesame Chicken: Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce in the marinade and sesame sauce.

Benefits of Making Sesame Chicken Without Cornstarch

• Gluten-free: All-purpose flour can be replaced with gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Lower in carbohydrates: Cornstarch is a high-carbohydrate ingredient, so omitting it reduces the overall carbohydrate content of the dish.
• Healthier coating: Panko breadcrumbs provide a crispy coating with less oil absorption than traditional breadcrumbs.
• Versatile: The recipe can be easily adapted to suit your dietary preferences and taste buds.

Key Points: Embrace the Culinary Possibilities

Making sesame chicken without cornstarch opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply prefer a healthier option, this guide provides you with all the knowledge and tips you need to create a delectable dish that will satisfy your cravings. Experiment with different variations, sauces, and sides to discover your favorite flavor combinations. Embrace the journey of culinary discovery and enjoy the tantalizing flavors of sesame chicken without the need for cornstarch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, almond flour is a great gluten-free alternative to all-purpose flour. However, it may result in a slightly different texture.

2. What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

You can use regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers as a substitute for panko breadcrumbs.

3. How do I store leftover sesame chicken?

Store leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.