Pei Wei's Mongolian Chicken is a fan favorite, known for its savory, slightly sweet, and intensely flavorful profile. But what exactly makes it so popular? This article delves into the dish, exploring its ingredients, preparation, nutritional information, and answers to frequently asked questions. Get ready to satisfy your craving for this iconic Pei Wei creation!
What is Pei Wei Mongolian Chicken?
Pei Wei's Mongolian Chicken is a stir-fried dish featuring tender chicken breast, vibrant vegetables, and a signature sauce. The sauce is the star, blending sweet and savory notes with a hint of spice, creating a complex and addictive flavor profile. The vegetables typically include broccoli, carrots, and snap peas, providing a textural and nutritional counterpoint to the chicken. The dish is often served over rice, enhancing its overall appeal.
What are the ingredients in Pei Wei Mongolian Chicken?
While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, the key ingredients consistently include:
- Chicken Breast: The base protein, providing lean protein and a tender texture.
- Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and snap peas are commonly found, contributing both flavor and nutritional value. Other vegetables may be included depending on availability and seasonality.
- Mongolian Sauce: This is the heart of the dish. It's a unique blend of soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and a touch of chili for a subtle kick. Specific spice blends and other seasonings likely contribute to Pei Wei's distinctive taste.
- Sesame Seeds: Often sprinkled on top for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Rice: Typically served as a side or base for the chicken and vegetables.
Is Pei Wei Mongolian Chicken healthy?
Like many restaurant dishes, the nutritional content of Pei Wei's Mongolian Chicken depends on portion size and preparation methods. While it contains lean protein from the chicken and vitamins from the vegetables, it's also relatively high in sodium and carbohydrates from the sauce and rice. It's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Checking Pei Wei's online nutritional information for the most accurate details per serving size is recommended.
How many calories are in Pei Wei Mongolian Chicken?
The calorie count for Pei Wei Mongolian Chicken varies depending on the serving size and any modifications made. Checking the Pei Wei website's nutritional information will give you the most up-to-date calorie count for a standard order.
Can I make Pei Wei Mongolian Chicken at home?
Many culinary enthusiasts have attempted to replicate Pei Wei's Mongolian Chicken at home. While achieving the exact same flavor might be challenging without their proprietary sauce, numerous online recipes offer delicious approximations. These recipes often provide flexibility in ingredients and spice levels, allowing for customization to individual preferences. Searching online for "copycat Pei Wei Mongolian Chicken recipe" will yield various options.
What is the difference between Pei Wei's Mongolian Chicken and other Mongolian Chicken dishes?
While the core concept of Mongolian Chicken remains relatively consistent across various restaurants and cuisines, Pei Wei's version boasts a unique blend of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy flavors. This distinctive sauce and the quality of ingredients contribute to its distinct character, setting it apart from other versions.
Is Pei Wei Mongolian Chicken spicy?
The level of spiciness in Pei Wei's Mongolian Chicken is generally considered mild. It possesses a subtle heat, adding depth to the flavor without being overwhelmingly spicy. However, individual spice sensitivities vary, so it's best to approach it with an open mind, ready to adjust your spice intake accordingly.
Where can I find Pei Wei Mongolian Chicken?
Pei Wei Mongolian Chicken is available at all participating Pei Wei Asian Diner locations. It's advisable to check their website or app for restaurant locations and availability before visiting.
By understanding the ingredients, flavor profile, and nutritional considerations, you can fully appreciate the appeal of Pei Wei's Mongolian Chicken. Whether you're a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, this dish offers a delicious and satisfying culinary experience.
