Sesame chicken and dairy: a shocking revelation you can’t miss
What To Know
- For those with dairy allergies or sensitivities, Panda Express Sesame Chicken is a safe and delicious option.
- Panda Express Sesame Chicken is an excellent choice for those seeking a dairy-free and flavorful meal.
- While Sesame Chicken is a tasty dish, it is high in calories and fat.
Panda Express’s tantalizing Sesame Chicken is a beloved dish, but for those with dairy sensitivities, the question of whether it contains dairy is paramount. This blog post will delve into the ingredients of Sesame Chicken and provide a comprehensive answer to the question: “Does Panda Express Sesame Chicken have dairy?”
Ingredients Analysis
Panda Express’s website lists the ingredients for Sesame Chicken as follows:
- Chicken
- Water
- Sugar
- Soy sauce (water, soybeans, wheat, salt)
- Sesame oil
- Cornstarch
- Salt
- Garlic powder
- Ginger powder
- Red food color (water, caramel color, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, citric acid, natural flavors)
- Green food color (water, FD&C Blue No. 1, FD&C Yellow No. 5, FD&C Yellow No. 6, citric acid, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate)
Dairy-Free Confirmation
After carefully examining the ingredient list, it is evident that Panda Express Sesame Chicken does not contain any dairy products. All the ingredients are either plant-based or do not contain dairy derivatives.
Soy Sauce: A Common Misconception
Soy sauce is often perceived to contain dairy due to its creamy texture. However, traditional soy sauce is made from soybeans, wheat, water, and salt, and does not contain any dairy ingredients.
Health Benefits of Dairy-Free Sesame Chicken
Choosing dairy-free Sesame Chicken offers several health benefits:
- Suitable for Lactose Intolerance: Individuals with lactose intolerance can enjoy this dish without experiencing digestive discomfort.
- Lower Cholesterol Levels: Dairy-free options typically contain less saturated fat, which can help lower cholesterol levels.
- Reduced Risk of Heart Disease: Consuming less dairy fat has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease.
Enjoying Sesame Chicken with Confidence
For those with dairy allergies or sensitivities, Panda Express Sesame Chicken is a safe and delicious option. Its dairy-free composition allows individuals to indulge in this flavorful dish without worrying about allergic reactions or digestive issues.
Substitutions for Dairy Ingredients
In case you encounter a recipe or variant of Sesame Chicken that does contain dairy, here are some simple substitutions:
- Dairy Milk: Use almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.
- Cream: Substitute with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Cheese: Use vegan cheese shreds or slices, such as cashew or almond-based cheeses.
Final Thoughts: A Dairy-Free Delight
Panda Express Sesame Chicken is an excellent choice for those seeking a dairy-free and flavorful meal. Its absence of dairy ingredients makes it suitable for individuals with dairy sensitivities, while its delicious taste satisfies any palate.
Information You Need to Know
1. Is Panda Express Sesame Chicken gluten-free?
No, Sesame Chicken contains wheat in the soy sauce.
2. What is the nutritional value of Sesame Chicken?
A 1-cup serving contains approximately 290 calories, 13 grams of fat, 30 grams of carbohydrates, and 20 grams of protein.
3. Can I make Sesame Chicken at home without dairy?
Yes, you can find dairy-free Sesame Chicken recipes online or adapt your own recipe by using dairy-free ingredients.
4. Is Sesame Chicken healthy?
While Sesame Chicken is a tasty dish, it is high in calories and fat. Consuming it in moderation is recommended.
5. What are the different sauces available for Sesame Chicken?
Panda Express offers three sauces for Sesame Chicken: Sweet & Sour, Honey Sesame, and Tangy Orange. The Sweet & Sour sauce contains dairy.
