Unveiling the Distinct Flavors- A Comparative Insight into General Tso’s Chicken and Sesame Chicken

difference between general tso and sesame chicken

General Tso’s Chicken and Sesame Chicken are two of the most popular Chinese dishes in the Western world. Despite their similar names and the fact that they are both deep-fried and served with a sweet and savory sauce, there are several key differences between the two that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between General Tso’s Chicken and Sesame Chicken, highlighting their unique ingredients, preparation methods, and flavors.

Ingredients

The main difference between General Tso’s Chicken and Sesame Chicken lies in their ingredients. General Tso’s Chicken typically includes chicken, peanuts, and a spicy, slightly sweet sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices. The peanuts are a distinctive feature of this dish, adding a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.

On the other hand, Sesame Chicken is made with chicken, a sweet and tangy sauce, and sesame seeds. The sauce is usually made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and sugar, giving it a glossy, sticky texture. The sesame seeds are sprinkled on top of the chicken before serving, adding a nutty aroma and a slightly crunchy texture.

Preparation Methods

The preparation methods for General Tso’s Chicken and Sesame Chicken also differ. General Tso’s Chicken is typically prepared by marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and egg whites before being coated in a breadcrumb mixture and deep-fried. The chicken is then tossed in the sauce and garnished with peanuts.

Sesame Chicken, on the other hand, is usually prepared by marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and egg whites, similar to General Tso’s Chicken. However, instead of being coated in breadcrumbs, the chicken is breaded with a mixture of cornstarch and sesame seeds. After being fried, the chicken is tossed in the sauce and garnished with sesame seeds.

Flavors

The flavors of General Tso’s Chicken and Sesame Chicken are also quite different. General Tso’s Chicken has a bold, spicy flavor with a hint of sweetness, thanks to the blend of spices and peanuts. The sauce is thick and coats the chicken evenly, making it slightly sticky and savory.

Sesame Chicken, on the other hand, has a sweet and tangy flavor with a glossy, sticky texture. The sesame seeds add a nutty aroma and a slightly crunchy texture, while the sauce is slightly thinner than that of General Tso’s Chicken, allowing it to coat the chicken more evenly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while General Tso’s Chicken and Sesame Chicken may share some similarities, such as their deep-fried nature and sweet and savory sauces, they are distinct dishes with unique ingredients, preparation methods, and flavors. General Tso’s Chicken offers a bold, spicy flavor with a nutty crunch, while Sesame Chicken provides a sweet and tangy taste with a glossy, sticky texture. Both dishes are beloved by many, and their differences highlight the rich diversity of Chinese cuisine.