Sesame Chicken Vs Orange Chicken: Which One Wins In Every Category?
What To Know
- Originating in the Sichuan province of China, sesame chicken is a relatively modern dish that gained popularity in the United States during the 1980s.
- It emerged as a popular dish in the United States in the 1970s and is characterized by its sweet and tangy orange sauce.
- Sesame chicken goes well with a variety of side dishes, while orange chicken is more versatile and can be paired with both traditional Chinese sides and American favorites.
In the realm of Chinese cuisine, two delectable dishes reign supreme: sesame chicken and orange chicken. Both tantalize taste buds with their unique flavors and crispy textures, but which one emerges as the champion? This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of sesame chicken vs. orange chicken, exploring their key differences, similarities, and which one reigns supreme in each category.
Origin and History
Sesame Chicken: Originating in the Sichuan province of China, sesame chicken is a relatively modern dish that gained popularity in the United States during the 1980s. Its signature flavor comes from a blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame seeds.
Orange Chicken: Orange chicken, on the other hand, traces its roots to the Fujian province of China. It emerged as a popular dish in the United States in the 1970s and is characterized by its sweet and tangy orange sauce.
Flavor Profile
Sesame Chicken: Sesame chicken boasts a savory and slightly spicy flavor. The soy sauce and ginger add a umami richness, while the garlic and sesame seeds contribute a nutty and aromatic depth.
Orange Chicken: Orange chicken exudes a sweet and tangy flavor. The orange sauce, made from orange juice, vinegar, and sugar, imparts a vibrant citrusy sweetness, balanced by a hint of sourness.
Texture
Sesame Chicken: Sesame chicken is known for its crispy exterior and tender interior. The chicken is typically double-fried to achieve a golden-brown crunchiness, while the batter remains soft and juicy inside.
Orange Chicken: Orange chicken shares a similar crispy texture to sesame chicken. However, the orange sauce tends to make the chicken slightly less crispy than its sesame counterpart.
Sauce
Sesame Chicken: Sesame chicken is coated in a thick and flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. The sauce clings to the chicken, providing a rich and savory coating.
Orange Chicken: Orange chicken is drenched in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The sauce is made from orange juice, vinegar, sugar, and sometimes honey, creating a vibrant and glossy glaze.
Accompaniments
Sesame Chicken: Sesame chicken is typically served with a side of steamed rice or noodles. The rice or noodles help to soak up the delicious sauce and balance the flavors.
Orange Chicken: Orange chicken is also commonly served with steamed rice or noodles. However, it can also be paired with other side dishes such as stir-fried vegetables or egg rolls.
Which One Is Better?
The question of sesame chicken vs. orange chicken is a matter of personal preference. However, based on the factors discussed above, here is a breakdown of which dish excels in each category:
- Flavor: Sesame chicken wins for those who prefer savory and slightly spicy flavors. Orange chicken is the better choice for those who enjoy sweet and tangy flavors.
- Texture: Both dishes offer a crispy exterior and tender interior, but sesame chicken tends to be slightly crispier.
- Sauce: Sesame chicken’s savory sauce is more versatile and pairs well with both rice and noodles. Orange chicken’s sweet and tangy sauce is a standout on its own.
- Accompaniments: Sesame chicken goes well with a variety of side dishes, while orange chicken is more versatile and can be paired with both traditional Chinese sides and American favorites.
Which One Is Healthier?
Both sesame chicken and orange chicken are similar in terms of calories and fat content. However, orange chicken tends to be slightly higher in sugar due to the orange sauce. If you are looking for a healthier option, consider ordering your sesame chicken or orange chicken with brown rice instead of white rice.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Winner
The choice between sesame chicken vs. orange chicken ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you crave savory and slightly spicy flavors, sesame chicken is the clear winner. If you prefer sweet and tangy flavors, orange chicken is the better option. Both dishes offer a delicious and satisfying dining experience, so the next time you find yourself at a Chinese restaurant, don’t be afraid to try both and decide for yourself which one reigns supreme.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which dish is more popular in the United States?
A: Orange chicken is generally more popular in the United States than sesame chicken.
Q: Can I make sesame chicken or orange chicken at home?
A: Yes, both sesame chicken and orange chicken can be easily made at home with the right ingredients and a few simple steps.
Q: Which dish is better for a party?
A: Orange chicken is a better choice for a party because its sweet and tangy flavor appeals to a wider range of palates.
Q: Can I substitute honey for sugar in the orange sauce?
A: Yes, you can substitute honey for sugar in the orange sauce. Honey will add a slightly different flavor to the sauce, but it will still be delicious.
Q: What other sauces can I use with sesame chicken?
A: In addition to the traditional soy sauce-based sauce, you can also use hoisin sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a sweet and sour sauce with sesame chicken.