Secret ingredient revealed: taste-testing the legendary panda express chow mein

Panda Express chow mein is a beloved dish known for its savory and satisfying taste. It features tender noodles, crisp vegetables, and a tantalizing sauce that combines sweet and savory notes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its flavor profile:

The Noodles

The chow mein noodles are made from wheat flour and are slightly chewy with a delicate flavor. They absorb the sauce well, enhancing the overall taste experience.

The Vegetables

The vegetable medley in Panda Express chow mein is a vibrant combination of broccoli, carrots, and water chestnuts. The broccoli adds a slightly bitter note, the carrots provide sweetness, and the water chestnuts offer a satisfying crunch.

The Sauce

The chow mein sauce is the star of the dish. It’s made with a blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. The soy sauce provides a salty umami flavor, while the oyster sauce adds a rich, savory depth. The sugar balances the salty and savory flavors, creating a harmonious blend. The sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and a hint of smokiness.

The Overall Taste

When all the components come together, Panda Express chow mein delivers a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The chewiness of the noodles, the crunch of the vegetables, and the savory sweetness of the sauce create a satisfying and addictive taste experience.

Variations

Panda Express offers two variations of chow mein:

• Chicken Chow Mein: This classic version features tender chicken pieces that are marinated in a savory sauce.
• Vegetable Chow Mein: This vegetarian-friendly option is packed with a generous serving of vegetables, including broccoli, carrots, onions, and water chestnuts.

How to Make Panda Express Chow Mein at Home

If you’re craving Panda Express chow mein but don’t want to venture out, you can easily recreate it at home. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 package (12 ounces) wheat chow mein noodles
• 1/2 cup chopped broccoli
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped water chestnuts
• 1/4 cup oyster sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles according to the package directions.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the broccoli, carrots, and water chestnuts and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and water.
5. Add the sauce to the skillet and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Add the noodles to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through.

Tips for Enhancing the Flavor

• Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables, as they will become mushy.
• If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce and brown sugar.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Serve the chow mein immediately for the best taste.

Final Thoughts

Panda Express chow mein is a delicious and versatile dish that satisfies cravings and brings joy to taste buds. Whether you enjoy it at the restaurant or make it at home, its symphony of flavors is sure to impress.

Top Questions Asked

Q: What is the main difference between chicken chow mein and vegetable chow mein?
A: The primary difference is the inclusion of chicken in the chicken chow mein, while the vegetable chow mein is vegetarian-friendly.

Q: Can I use any type of noodles for chow mein?
A: While wheat chow mein noodles are traditional, you can also use other types of noodles, such as rice noodles or egg noodles.

Q: How do I make the chow mein sauce thicker?
A: To thicken the sauce, dissolve an additional teaspoon of cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water and add it to the skillet while stirring constantly.