How To Deep Fry Sesame Chicken: The Secret Ingredient That Will Blow Your Mind!

Mastering the art of deep-frying sesame chicken is a culinary pursuit that yields tantalizing rewards. This beloved dish, a staple of Chinese cuisine, combines the irresistible crunch of crispy chicken with the aromatic sweetness of sesame seeds, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an aspiring home cook, this comprehensive guide will empower you to create this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken (30 minutes)

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Step 2: Preparing the Batter (15 minutes)

• Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup water
• Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and water.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until a smooth batter forms.

Step 3: Coating the Chicken (15 minutes)

• Instructions:

1. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
2. Dip each piece of chicken into the batter, coating it evenly.
3. Shake off any excess batter.

Step 4: Deep-Frying the Chicken (10 minutes)

• Equipment:
• Deep fryer or large pot
• Thermometer
• Slotted spoon
• Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
2. Carefully drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot.
3. Fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Preparing the Sesame Sauce (10 minutes)

• Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, water, cornstarch, ginger, and garlic.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Glazing the Chicken (5 minutes)

• Instructions:

1. Pour the sesame sauce over the fried chicken and stir to coat.
2. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds.

Step 7: Enjoying the Culinary Delicacy

Savor the crispy exterior and tender interior of your freshly deep-fried sesame chicken, accompanied by the sweet and savory glaze. Each bite will transport you to a culinary paradise, leaving you craving more.

Alternatives and Variations

• Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a fiery kick.
• Honey Garlic Sesame Chicken: Replace the sesame sauce with a honey garlic sauce made with equal parts honey and soy sauce, along with 1 tablespoon of minced garlic.
• Baked Sesame Chicken: If you prefer a healthier option, bake the chicken at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

What You Need to Know

1. Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork or shrimp instead of chicken. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.

2. 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 oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until warmed through.

3. What are some side dishes that pair well with sesame chicken?
Fried rice, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad are all excellent accompaniments.

4. How can I make the sesame chicken gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch in the batter.

5. Is it possible to freeze sesame chicken?
Yes, you can freeze cooked sesame chicken for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until warmed through.