Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken are two popular dishes that are often found on Chinese restaurant menus in the United States. Both dishes feature bite-sized pieces of fried chicken that are coated in a sweet and savory sauce, but there are some key differences in terms of flavor, texture, and preparation.
Sesame Chicken is typically made with battered and fried chicken that is then tossed in a sauce made from honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. The dish is then topped with sesame seeds, which gives it its signature nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
On the other hand, General Tso’s Chicken is made with battered and fried chicken that is then tossed in a sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and chili peppers. The dish has a spicy and tangy flavor profile that is often tempered with a touch of sweetness.
To compare the two dishes side by side, here’s a chart breaking down some of the key differences:
Sesame Chicken vs General Tso
Sesame Chicken | General Tso’s Chicken |
|---|---|
| Made with sesame seeds | No sesame seeds |
| Sweeter flavor profile | Spicier and tangier flavor profile |
| Sauce made with honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil | Sauce made with soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and chili peppers |
| Topped with sesame seeds for crunch | No added crunch |
| Milder heat level | Higher heat level |
So which dish is better(sesame chicken vs general tso)? It really depends on personal preferences. If you have a sweet tooth and prefer milder flavors, you may enjoy Sesame Chicken more. On the other hand, if you like a little spice and tanginess in your food, General Tso’s Chicken may be more up your alley. Ultimately, both dishes are delicious and worth trying if you haven’t already.
How each Dish was created
The exact origins of both Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken are somewhat murky, with different versions of the story circulating among food historians and chefs. However, here are the most commonly accepted origin stories for each dish:
Sesame Chicken:
One popular theory is that Sesame Chicken was created in the 1970s by Chinese-American chef Peng Chang-kuei, who was also credited with inventing General Tso’s Chicken. According to this story, Peng was experimenting with new dishes to serve at his restaurant, and he came up with a recipe that involved frying pieces of chicken and then tossing them in a sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil. He added sesame seeds for texture and flavor, and the dish quickly became a hit with customers.
Another theory is that Sesame Chicken actually originated in China, specifically in the Shandong province, where sesame is a common ingredient in local cuisine. In this version of the story, the dish was brought to the United States by Chinese immigrants and adapted to American tastes.
General Tso’s Chicken:
The origin story of General Tso’s Chicken is even more debated, with several different accounts claiming to be the true version. Here are a few of the most commonly told stories:
- One theory is that General Tso’s Chicken is named after a famous Chinese military leader from the 19th century, General Tso Tsung-t’ang. According to this story, the dish was one of his favorites and was created by his personal chef.
- Another theory is that General Tso’s Chicken was actually invented by Peng Chang-kuei, the same chef who is credited with creating Sesame Chicken. According to this version of the story, Peng created the dish in the 1950s for a banquet in honor of a visiting U.S. Navy admiral. The dish was a hit, and Peng added it to his restaurant’s menu.
- A third theory is that General Tso’s Chicken was actually invented in the United States by Chinese immigrants. According to this story, the dish was created in the 1970s or 1980s in New York City’s Chinatown and was named after a well-known Chinese military figure as a marketing ploy.
Regardless of which story is true, there’s no denying that General Tso’s Chicken has become an iconic dish in American Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients and Preparation of Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken
Here’s a chart comparing the ingredients and preparation of Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken:
Sesame Chicken vs General Tso
| Sesame Chicken | General Tso’s Chicken |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces | Chicken thigh or breast, cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Cornstarch | Cornstarch |
| Flour | Flour |
| Baking powder | Baking powder |
| Soy sauce | Soy sauce |
| Honey | Sugar |
| Rice vinegar | Rice vinegar |
| Sesame oil | Sesame oil |
| Garlic | Garlic |
| Ginger | Ginger |
| Chicken broth | Chicken broth |
| Sesame seeds, for garnish | Dried red chili peppers |
| Vegetable oil, for frying | Vegetable oil, for frying |
Directions: Sesame Chicken vs General Tso
Sesame Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, flour, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chicken broth to make the sauce.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok. Once hot, add the chicken and fry until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In a clean skillet, pour the sauce and heat over medium heat until it thickens.
- Add the fried chicken and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot.
General Tso’s Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, flour, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and dried red chili peppers to make the sauce.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok. Once hot, add the chicken and fry until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In a clean skillet, pour the sauce and heat over medium heat until it thickens.
- Add the fried chicken and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Serve hot.
Flavor and Texture Differences Between sesame chicken vs general tso chicken
Here’s a table comparing the flavor and texture differences between Sesame Chicken vs General Tso:
| Flavor | Sesame Chicken | General Tso’s Chicken |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetness | Medium to high | High |
| Saltiness | Medium to high | High |
| Spiciness | Low to medium | High |
| Tanginess | Low | Medium |
| Umami | Low to medium | High |
| Garlic flavor | Moderate | Moderate to high |
| Ginger flavor | Moderate | Moderate to high |
| Sesame flavor | High | Low to moderate |
| Soy sauce flavor | High | High |
Sesame Chicken vs General Tso
| Texture | Sesame Chicken | General Tso’s Chicken |
|---|---|---|
| Crispy coating | Yes | Yes |
| Juiciness | High | High |
| Tenderness | High | Medium to high |
| Chewiness | Low to medium | Medium to high |
| Crunchy vegetables | Optional | Optional |
Overall, Sesame Chicken tends to be sweeter and less spicy than General Tso’s Chicken. It has a prominent sesame flavor and a moderate garlic and ginger flavor. The coating is crispy and the texture is juicy and tender. Crunchy vegetables are often optional.
On the other hand, General Tso’s Chicken is known for its high sweetness, high saltiness, and high spiciness. It has a moderate garlic and ginger flavor and a low to moderate sesame flavor. The coating is also crispy, but the texture is slightly chewier than Sesame Chicken. Crunchy vegetables are also optional.
Unique taste and mouthfeel of each dish
Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken both have unique taste and mouthfeel, which sets them apart from each other.
Sesame Chicken has a sweet and savory flavor profile with a prominent sesame flavor that is slightly nutty and toasted. The garlic and ginger add a mild spicy kick to the dish, while the soy sauce provides a hint of umami.
The coating of the chicken is crispy and crunchy, which contrasts with the tender and juicy chicken inside. The sauce is thick and sticky, which helps it cling to the chicken and coat every bite. Overall, the taste and mouthfeel of Sesame Chicken is well-balanced and satisfying.
In contrast, General Tso’s Chicken has a more complex flavor profile with a strong emphasis on sweetness, saltiness, and spiciness. The dish is known for its bold and intense flavors, with a fiery kick from the dried red chili peppers. The garlic and ginger add a pungent and fragrant note to the dish, while the soy sauce and sugar provide a rich umami taste.
The coating of the chicken is crispy, but slightly thicker and chewier than Sesame Chicken, which gives it a more substantial mouthfeel. The sauce is thick and syrupy, with a sticky and glossy texture that clings to the chicken and adds an extra layer of richness. Overall, the taste and mouthfeel of General Tso’s Chicken is robust and powerful, with a spicy-sweet balance that is sure to tantalize the taste buds.
Nutritional Value: Sesame Chicken vs General Tso Chicken
Here’s a chart comparing the nutritional value of Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken:
| Nutrient | Sesame Chicken | General Tso’s Chicken |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 430 | 1020 |
| Total Fat | 24 g | 57 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g | 11 g |
| Cholesterol | 105 mg | 150 mg |
| Sodium | 840 mg | 2350 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 25 g | 83 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g | 2 g |
| Total Sugars | 16 g | 48 g |
| Protein | 27 g | 41 g |
As the chart shows, General Tso’s Chicken is significantly higher in calories, total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium, and total carbohydrates compared to Sesame Chicken. It also has a much higher amount of total sugars. However, General Tso’s Chicken does have a slightly higher amount of protein compared to Sesame Chicken.
It’s worth noting that the nutritional values can vary depending on the cooking method and ingredients used in each recipe. These values are meant to serve as a general comparison and may not be applicable to all versions of the dishes.
Health Benifits: Sesame Chicken vs General Tso Chicken
Here’s a table comparing the potential health benefits of sesame chicken vs general tso chicken:
| Health Benefit | Sesame Chicken | General Tso’s Chicken |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | Yes, from chicken | Yes, from chicken |
| Vitamins and minerals | Moderate amounts of B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium from chicken and vegetables | Moderate amounts of B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium from chicken and vegetables |
| Fiber | Low | Low |
| Antioxidants | Moderate amounts of antioxidants from sesame seeds and vegetables | Moderate amounts of antioxidants from dried red chili peppers and vegetables |
| Sodium | Moderate | High |
| Sugar | Moderate | High |
| Fat | Moderate amount of unsaturated fats from vegetable oil and sesame seeds | High amount of saturated fats from deep-frying and sugar |
| Vegetables | Can provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber | Can provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber |
As the table shows, both Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken provide protein, vitamins, and minerals from the chicken and vegetables used in the recipes. Sesame Chicken contains moderate amounts of antioxidants from sesame seeds and vegetables, while General Tso’s Chicken contains moderate amounts of antioxidants from dried red chili peppers and vegetables. However, General Tso’s Chicken is high in sodium, sugar, and saturated fats due to the deep-frying and sugar in the recipe, while Sesame Chicken has a more moderate amount of these nutrients. Both dishes can be made healthier by using leaner cuts of chicken, reducing the amount of sugar and salt in the sauce, and incorporating more vegetables into the recipe.
A comparison: Sesame Chicken vs General Tso Chicken
| Nutrient | Sesame Chicken (1 serving, 200g) | General Tso’s Chicken (1 serving, 200g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 430 | 1020 |
| Total Fat | 24 g | 57 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g | 11 g |
| Cholesterol | 105 mg | 150 mg |
| Sodium | 840 mg | 2350 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 25 g | 83 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g | 2 g |
| Total Sugars | 16 g | 48 g |
| Protein | 27 g | 41 g |
As the table shows, General Tso’s Chicken is significantly higher in calories, total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium, total carbohydrates, and total sugars compared to Sesame Chicken. It is also slightly higher in protein and dietary fiber. Both dishes are good sources of vitamins and minerals from the chicken and vegetables used in the recipes.
It’s important to note that these nutritional values are based on typical recipes and serving sizes, and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used. Additionally, modifying the recipes to use leaner cuts of chicken and reducing the amount of sugar and salt in the sauce can make both dishes healthier options.
Regional Variations:
Sesame Chicken vs General Tso Chicken
Regional Variations of Sesame Chicken:
- In Sichuan, China, there is a version of Sesame Chicken called “Sesame Noodles with Shredded Chicken” that uses thin noodles instead of chunks of chicken and is served cold with a spicy sesame sauce.
- In Taiwan, there is a popular street food called “Sesame Oil Chicken” that is made with chicken pieces braised in soy sauce and sesame oil, then garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
- In the United States, some versions of Sesame Chicken may use a sweet and sour sauce instead of a sesame sauce, and may be served with fried rice or lo mein noodles.
Regional Variations of General Tso’s Chicken:
- In Hunan, China, where the dish originated, General Tso’s Chicken is known as “Hunan Chicken” and is made with bone-in chicken that is deep-fried and then stir-fried with a spicy sauce that includes dried chili peppers, garlic, and ginger.
- In Hong Kong, there is a version of General Tso’s Chicken called “Kung Pao Chicken” that is made with diced chicken, peanuts, and vegetables in a spicy sauce that includes Sichuan peppercorns.
- In the United States, some versions of General Tso’s Chicken may be sweeter or spicier depending on the region, and may be served with steamed vegetables or fried rice.
Which Should You Choose: Sesame Chicken vs General Tso Chicken
Choosing between Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken ultimately comes down to personal preference. Here are some factors to consider:
- Flavor: If you prefer a sweeter, milder flavor with a nutty sesame taste, Sesame Chicken may be the way to go. If you prefer a spicier, tangier flavor with a more complex sauce that includes garlic and ginger, General Tso’s Chicken may be the better choice.
- Texture: If you enjoy a crispy, crunchy texture with tender chicken pieces, you may prefer General Tso’s Chicken. If you prefer a softer, more velvety texture with a sesame seed coating, Sesame Chicken may be more up your alley.
- Nutrition: If you’re watching your calorie, fat, and sodium intake, Sesame Chicken may be the healthier option. However, both dishes can be made healthier by using leaner cuts of chicken, reducing the amount of sugar and salt in the sauce, and incorporating more vegetables into the recipe.
- Regional Variations: If you’re interested in exploring different versions of these dishes, consider trying regional variations from China or other countries.
Ultimately, the best way to decide between Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken is to try both and see which one you prefer.
Conclusion:
Sesame Chicken vs General Tso Chicken
Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken are both popular Chinese-American dishes with distinct flavors, textures, and nutritional profiles. While Sesame Chicken is milder and sweeter with a sesame seed coating, General Tso’s Chicken is spicier and tangier with a crispy texture.
When it comes to nutrition, Sesame Chicken tends to be lower in calories, fat, and sodium compared to General Tso’s Chicken. However, both dishes can be made healthier by using leaner cuts of chicken, reducing the amount of sugar and salt in the sauce, and incorporating more vegetables into the recipe.
Sesame Chicken vs General Tso Chicken are both popular Chinese-American dishes with distinct flavors, textures, and nutritional profiles. While Sesame Chicken is milder and sweeter with a sesame seed coating, General Tso’s Chicken is spicier and tangier with a crispy texture.
When it comes to nutrition, Sesame Chicken tends to be lower in calories, fat, and sodium compared to General Tso’s Chicken. However, both dishes can be made healthier by using leaner cuts of chicken, reducing the amount of sugar and salt in the sauce, and incorporating more vegetables into the recipe.
