Master the art of crispy sesame chicken: unlocking the crunchy goodness!
What To Know
- After the first fry, let the chicken cool slightly, then fry it again for a few seconds to create an extra-crispy crust.
- Stir-fry noodles, such as lo mein or chow mein, and toss them with the sesame chicken for a savory and satisfying meal.
- Stir-fry your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas, and serve them alongside the sesame chicken for a healthy and colorful side dish.
Crispy sesame chicken is a beloved dish that tantalizes taste buds with its crunchy exterior and savory-sweet glaze. However, achieving that perfect crispiness can be a culinary conundrum. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the secrets of how to make sesame chicken crispy, ensuring your dish reigns supreme.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
The foundation of crispy sesame chicken lies in the quality of the ingredients. Select fresh, free-range chicken breasts for optimal flavor and texture. Use cornstarch as the primary coating agent, as its fine granules adhere well to the chicken.
Marinating the Chicken
Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. This marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with Asian flavors. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Double-Coating the Chicken
The secret to crispy sesame chicken lies in double-coating it. First, coat the marinated chicken in cornstarch and shake off any excess. Then, dip the chicken into a beaten egg and coat it again in cornstarch. This double-coating creates a barrier that prevents the chicken from becoming soggy.
Frying the Chicken
Heat a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and drain it on paper towels.
Making the Sesame Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Bring the sauce to a simmer in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Continue simmering until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
Glazing the Chicken
Once the sesame sauce has thickened, add the fried chicken pieces and toss to coat. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Tips for Extra Crispiness
- Use cold chicken for frying. Cold chicken will absorb less oil, resulting in a crispier texture.
- Fry the chicken in small batches to prevent overcrowding. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and make the chicken soggy.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Overcooking will make the chicken tough and dry.
- Double-fry the chicken for maximum crispiness. After the first fry, let the chicken cool slightly, then fry it again for a few seconds to create an extra-crispy crust.
Variations on Sesame Chicken
- Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add chili powder or Sriracha sauce to the sesame sauce for a fiery kick.
- Honey Sesame Chicken: Increase the honey in the sesame sauce for a sweeter flavor.
- Orange Sesame Chicken: Add orange juice and zest to the sesame sauce for a citrusy twist.
Perfecting the Accompaniments
Crispy sesame chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of accompaniments:
- Steamed Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Noodles: Stir-fry noodles, such as lo mein or chow mein, and toss them with the sesame chicken for a savory and satisfying meal.
- Vegetables: Stir-fry your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas, and serve them alongside the sesame chicken for a healthy and colorful side dish.
Popular Questions
How do I avoid soggy sesame chicken?
- Double-coat the chicken in cornstarch and egg.
- Fry the chicken in small batches.
- Don’t overcook the chicken.
Can I use other protein sources besides chicken?
- Yes, you can use pork, beef, or tofu instead of chicken.
How can I make the sesame sauce thicker?
- Add more cornstarch to the sauce and simmer until it reaches the desired consistency.
