Sesame chicken: a nutty adventure or a potential allergic reaction? know before you chow!
What To Know
- It typically consists of bite-sized pieces of chicken that are coated in a batter, fried until golden brown, and then tossed in a sweet and savory sauce.
- The fried chicken is tossed in a sauce made with soy sauce, sugar, and sesame seeds.
- For individuals with nut allergies, sesame chicken is a safe and enjoyable dish to savor.
The tantalizing aroma of sesame chicken wafts through countless restaurants, enticing diners with its crispy exterior and savory sauce. However, for those with nut allergies, the question of whether this dish contains nuts looms large. This blog post delves into the ingredients and preparation methods of sesame chicken to uncover the truth: does sesame chicken contain nuts?
What is Sesame Chicken?
Sesame chicken is a popular dish originating from Chinese cuisine. It typically consists of bite-sized pieces of chicken that are coated in a batter, fried until golden brown, and then tossed in a sweet and savory sauce.
Ingredients in Sesame Chicken
The main ingredients in sesame chicken include:
- Chicken
- Batter (usually made with flour, egg, and cornstarch)
- Soy sauce
- Sugar
- Sesame seeds
Nut Content
Traditional sesame chicken does not contain nuts. Sesame seeds, despite their name, are not classified as nuts but rather as oilseeds. They are safe for consumption by individuals with nut allergies.
Preparation Methods
Sesame chicken is typically prepared in three steps:
1. Coating: The chicken pieces are coated in a batter made with flour, egg, and cornstarch.
2. Frying: The coated chicken is deep-fried until golden brown.
3. Saucing: The fried chicken is tossed in a sauce made with soy sauce, sugar, and sesame seeds.
Common Misconceptions
Some people may mistakenly believe that sesame chicken contains nuts because of its name. However, as mentioned earlier, sesame seeds are not nuts. Additionally, the dish is often served with a side of peanuts, which can lead to confusion.
Variations and Substitutions
While traditional sesame chicken does not contain nuts, there are some variations that may include them. For example, some restaurants may use peanut oil for frying or add chopped peanuts to the sauce. If you have a nut allergy, it’s important to check with the restaurant before ordering.
Summary: A Nut-Free Delight
In conclusion, traditional sesame chicken does not contain nuts. However, it’s always advisable to check with the restaurant to ensure that there are no variations or substitutions that may include nuts. For individuals with nut allergies, sesame chicken is a safe and enjoyable dish to savor.
Questions You May Have
Q: Why is sesame chicken called “sesame” if it doesn’t contain nuts?
A: Sesame seeds are not classified as nuts but rather as oilseeds. The dish is named after the sesame seeds that are used in the sauce.
Q: Can I make sesame chicken at home without using nuts?
A: Yes, you can easily make sesame chicken at home using a nut-free batter and sauce.
Q: What are some nut-free sides that I can serve with sesame chicken?
A: Some nut-free side dishes that pair well with sesame chicken include steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a side salad.