When it comes to Chinese takeout, two dishes that are always on the menu are sweet and sour chicken and sesame chicken. Both dishes have a cult following and are beloved by many, but which one is truly the king of the Chinese takeout world? In this blog post, we will dive deep into the flavors and characteristics of both dishes and help you decide which one is the winner for your next takeout order.
The Sweet and Sour Chicken Contender
Sweet and sour chicken is a classic Chinese-American dish that has been a staple on menus for decades. It’s made by marinating chunks of chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch, which gives it that signature sweet and sour taste. The chicken is then deep-fried until crispy and served with a side of rice.
The Pros of Sweet and Sour Chicken
One of the biggest pros of sweet and sour chicken is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet and sour flavors makes it appealing to a wide variety of palates. It’s also a dish that’s easy to eat, as the chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces and served with rice, making it a complete meal. Finally, sweet and sour chicken is a dish that’s easy to find on almost any Chinese takeout menu, so it’s a safe bet if you’re trying a new restaurant.
The Cons of Sweet and Sour Chicken
While sweet and sour chicken is a classic dish, it’s not without its downsides. The deep-frying process makes it a less healthy option, and the high sugar content means it’s not ideal for those watching their sugar intake. Additionally, some people find the sweet and sour flavor to be too overpowering and prefer something with a more subtle taste.
What is sweet and sour chicken also called?
Sweet and sour chicken is also sometimes called “tang cu ji” in Chinese cuisine. This translates to “sugar vinegar chicken,” which accurately describes the main components of the dish’s sauce. In some parts of China, the dish is also known as “Gu Lao Rou,” which roughly translates to “old-fashioned sweet and sour pork.” This name is a nod to the dish’s long history in Chinese cuisine.
How does sweet and sour chicken taste?
Sweet and sour chicken has a distinct taste that is both tangy and sweet. The sauce is typically made with a combination of sugar, vinegar, and ketchup, which gives it a slightly sweet and sour flavor. Many variations of the dish also include pineapple, which adds an additional layer of sweetness to the overall taste. The chicken itself is usually crispy and flavorful, which provides a nice contrast to the tangy sauce.
How unhealthy is sweet and sour chicken?
Unfortunately, like many Chinese takeout dishes, sweet and sour chicken is not the healthiest option. The dish is typically deep-fried, which adds a lot of calories and fat. Additionally, the sauce is high in sugar, which can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes. However, there are ways to make a healthier version of sweet and sour chicken by baking the chicken instead of frying it and using a sauce that is lower in sugar.
What flavor is sweet and sour?
The flavor of sweet and sour is exactly what it sounds like: a combination of sweet and sour tastes. The sweet flavor comes from sugar, while the sour taste comes from vinegar. In Chinese cuisine, sweet and sour sauce is a popular condiment that is used to enhance the flavor of many dishes, including sweet and sour chicken, pork, and shrimp.
What is Chinese sweet and sour chicken made of?
The exact recipe for Chinese sweet and sour chicken can vary depending on the region and the chef. However, the basic components of the dish include:
- Chicken: The dish is typically made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs that are cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Batter: The chicken is usually coated in a batter made from cornstarch, flour, and egg before being fried.
- Sauce: The sauce is made from a combination of sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and sometimes pineapple juice. Cornstarch is often added to thicken the sauce.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and pineapple are common vegetables used in sweet and sour chicken.
The Sesame Chicken Challenger
Sesame chicken is another popular Chinese-American dish that has a slightly different flavor profile than sweet and sour chicken. It’s made by coating chunks of chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame seeds, which gives it a rich, savory taste. The chicken is then deep-fried until crispy and served with a side of rice.
The Pros of Sesame Chicken
Sesame chicken has several pros that make it a contender in the sweet and sour chicken vs. sesame chicken battle. Firstly, the combination of honey and sesame seeds gives it a unique flavor that is different from other Chinese takeout dishes. Additionally, sesame chicken is a healthier option than sweet and sour chicken, as it contains less sugar and is not as heavily deep-fried. Finally, the sesame seeds add a nice texture to the dish, giving it a satisfying crunch.
The Cons of Sesame Chicken
One of the cons of sesame chicken is that it may not be as widely available on Chinese takeout menus as sweet and sour chicken. Additionally, some people find the sesame flavor to be too overpowering and prefer a dish with a more balanced taste.
The Ultimate Battle: Sweet and Sour Chicken vs. Sesame Chicken Comparison Table
To help you make an informed decision about which dish to order, we’ve created a comparison table of sweet and sour chicken vs. sesame chicken:
| Criteria | Sweet and Sour Chicken | Sesame Chicken |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Sweet and Sour | Savory, Honey and Sesame Seeds |
| Healthiness | Less Healthy | Healthier |
| Availability | Widely Available | Less Common |
| Texture | Soft and Tender | Crispy and Crunchy |
| Crowd-Pleaser | Yes | Yes |
Why is it called sesame chicken?
Sesame chicken is called that because the dish is made with a sauce that contains sesame oil and is usually garnished with sesame seeds. The sesame oil gives the dish a nutty, slightly sweet flavor, while the sesame seeds add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor. The dish is a popular takeout item in Chinese cuisine and has become a favorite in many Western countries as well. It’s also a great option for those who love the taste of sesame and want a savory, satisfying meal.
Is sweet and sour chicken similar to sesame chicken?
Well, asking if sweet and sour chicken is similar to sesame chicken is like asking if Beyoncé is similar to Taylor Swift. They’re both chicken dishes, but they have completely different flavor profiles. Sweet and sour chicken is tangy and sweet, while sesame chicken is savory and nutty. Sweet and sour chicken is typically made with a sweet and tangy sauce made from sugar, vinegar, and ketchup, and is usually served with vegetables such as bell peppers and pineapple. On the other hand, sesame chicken is made with a savory sauce that contains sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey, and is typically served with broccoli or green beans. So, while both dishes may contain chicken, they are definitely not similar in taste or ingredients.
Which is better sesame chicken or orange chicken?
Well, that’s like asking which is better: a Ferrari or a Lamborghini? Both sesame chicken and orange chicken are delicious, but they have distinct flavor profiles. Sesame chicken is savory, nutty, and has a slight sweetness from the honey in the sauce. On the other hand, orange chicken is sweet, tangy, and has a subtle heat from the chili flakes. It really depends on your personal preference. If you’re in the mood for something savory and nutty, go for sesame chicken. But if you’re craving something sweet and tangy, orange chicken is the way to go.
What chicken is similar to sesame chicken?
General Tso’s chicken is similar to sesame chicken. Like sesame chicken, General Tso’s chicken is made with a savory sauce that contains soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar. It also has a slight kick from the chili flakes. The main difference between the two dishes is that General Tso’s chicken usually has a thicker, spicier sauce than sesame chicken. So, if you’re a fan of sesame chicken, give General Tso’s chicken a try and see how it compares.
The Verdict
After weighing the pros and cons of both dishes, it’s clear that the ultimate winner of the sweet and sour chicken vs. sesame chicken battle depends on personal taste and dietary preferences.
If you’re someone who loves a sweet and tangy flavor, then sweet and sour chicken is the way to go. It’s a classic dish that’s easy to find on most Chinese takeout menus, and it’s sure to please a crowd. However, if you’re looking for a healthier option that still packs a punch in terms of flavor, then sesame chicken is the way to go. The honey and sesame seeds add a unique flavor profile that’s different from other Chinese takeout dishes, and it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings without sacrificing your health goals.
At the end of the day, whether you’re team sweet and sour chicken or team sesame chicken, there’s no denying that both dishes are delicious in their own right. So the next time you’re craving Chinese takeout, why not try both and see which one you prefer? Who knows, you might just find a new favorite dish!
Related Questions
Are sweet and sour chicken and sesame chicken the same dish?
No, sweet and sour chicken and sesame chicken are different dishes with different sauces and flavor profiles.
Is sweet and sour chicken spicy?
No, sweet and sour chicken is not typically spicy. It has a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Is sesame chicken spicy?
Sesame chicken can be slightly spicy, depending on the recipe. The sauce typically includes chili flakes or hot sauce.
What vegetables are typically served with sweet and sour chicken?
Bell peppers and pineapple are common vegetables served with sweet and sour chicken.
What vegetables are typically served with sesame chicken?
Broccoli or green beans are commonly served with sesame chicken.
Is sweet and sour chicken healthy?
Sweet and sour chicken is not a particularly healthy dish. It is often deep-fried and the sauce can be high in sugar.
Is sesame chicken healthy?
Sesame chicken is not a particularly healthy dish. It is often deep-fried and the sauce can be high in sodium.
Can sweet and sour chicken be made without frying?
Yes, sweet and sour chicken can be baked or stir-fried instead of fried.
Can sesame chicken be made without frying?
Yes, sesame chicken can be baked or stir-fried instead of fried.
What is the nutritional information for sweet and sour chicken?
The nutritional information for sweet and sour chicken can vary depending on the recipe, but it is typically high in calories, fat, and sugar.
What is the nutritional information for sesame chicken?
The nutritional information for sesame chicken can vary depending on the recipe, but it is typically high in calories, fat, and sodium.
Is sweet and sour chicken gluten-free?
Sweet and sour chicken is not gluten-free because it is typically coated in a batter made with flour.
Is sesame chicken gluten-free?
Sesame chicken is not gluten-free because it is typically coated in a batter made with flour.
Can sweet and sour chicken be made without sugar?
Yes, sweet and sour chicken can be made with a sugar substitute or with less sugar.
Can sesame chicken be made without soy sauce?
Yes, sesame chicken can be made without soy sauce by using a soy sauce substitute or leaving it out altogether.
What is the difference between sweet and sour chicken and orange chicken?
Sweet and sour chicken is tangy and sweet, while orange chicken is sweet, tangy, and has a subtle heat from the chili flakes.
Can sweet and sour chicken and sesame chicken be made vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, both dishes can be made vegetarian or vegan by using meat substitutes and vegan sauces.
Can sweet and sour chicken and sesame chicken be reheated?
Yes, both dishes can be reheated in the oven or microwave, but the chicken may not be as crispy as it was when it was first made.
