Sesame Chicken Vs Mongolian Chicken: The Ultimate Face-Off
What To Know
- Sesame chicken is typically coated in a sweet and savory sauce, while Mongolian chicken has a slightly sweet and savory sauce with a more pronounced ginger flavor.
- However, if you prefer tender, stir-fried chicken with a slightly sweet and savory sauce with a more pronounced ginger flavor, then Mongolian chicken is the way to go.
- Mongolian chicken is generally considered to be the healthier choice, as it is stir-fried and contains less oil and calories compared to sesame chicken, which is battered and fried.
Sesame chicken and Mongolian chicken are two of the most popular dishes in Chinese cuisine, known for their distinct flavors and cooking techniques. While both dishes share some similarities, they also have unique characteristics that set them apart. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of sesame chicken vs Mongolian chicken, exploring their flavors, ingredients, and cooking methods to determine which one truly reigns supreme.
Sesame Chicken: A Classic Favorite
Sesame chicken is a beloved dish that originated in the Sichuan province of China. It is characterized by its crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame seeds. The chicken is typically marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, and ginger before being battered and fried. The resulting dish is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, with a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior.
Mongolian Chicken: A Savory Sensation
Mongolian chicken, on the other hand, traces its roots to the northern regions of China, specifically Inner Mongolia. Unlike sesame chicken, Mongolian chicken is not battered and fried. Instead, it is stir-fried with a variety of vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, and carrots, in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and hoisin sauce. The chicken is typically marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil before being stir-fried. The result is a tender, succulent chicken dish with a slightly sweet and savory sauce.
Similarities and Differences
While sesame chicken and Mongolian chicken have distinct flavors and cooking methods, they share some commonalities. Both dishes utilize chicken as the primary protein, and both are typically served with rice or noodles. Additionally, both dishes incorporate soy sauce as a key ingredient in their respective sauces.
However, there are several notable differences between the two dishes. Sesame chicken is characterized by its crispy, battered exterior, while Mongolian chicken is known for its tender, stir-fried texture. Sesame chicken is typically coated in a sweet and savory sauce, while Mongolian chicken has a slightly sweet and savory sauce with a more pronounced ginger flavor.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between sesame chicken and Mongolian chicken ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy crispy, battered chicken with a sweet and savory sauce, then sesame chicken is a great option. However, if you prefer tender, stir-fried chicken with a slightly sweet and savory sauce with a more pronounced ginger flavor, then Mongolian chicken is the way to go.
Additional Considerations
In addition to personal preferences, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing between sesame chicken and Mongolian chicken. Sesame chicken is typically a more popular dish, making it easier to find at Chinese restaurants. Mongolian chicken, on the other hand, may be less common, especially in smaller towns or cities.
Health Considerations
Both sesame chicken and Mongolian chicken can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. However, sesame chicken is typically higher in calories and fat due to the battering and frying process. Mongolian chicken, on the other hand, is generally lower in calories and fat since it is stir-fried.
Wrap-Up: A Matter of Taste
In the battle of sesame chicken vs Mongolian chicken, there is no clear winner. Both dishes offer unique flavors and textures that appeal to different palates. Ultimately, the best way to decide which one you prefer is to try them both and see which one suits your taste buds better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which dish is healthier, sesame chicken or Mongolian chicken?
A: Mongolian chicken is generally considered to be the healthier choice, as it is stir-fried and contains less oil and calories compared to sesame chicken, which is battered and fried.
Q: Can I make sesame chicken or Mongolian chicken at home?
A: Yes, both dishes can be easily prepared at home. There are numerous recipes available online that provide step-by-step instructions for making sesame chicken and Mongolian chicken.
Q: What are some common side dishes that can be served with sesame chicken or Mongolian chicken?
A: Rice, noodles, and steamed vegetables are common side dishes that pair well with both sesame chicken and Mongolian chicken.