Tangerine Pork

My friend, you're about to embark on a culinary adventure! Tangerine Pork is a popular dish commonly found on the menus of Chinese-American restaurants in the USA. Buckle up, and let's dive into the delightful world of this scrumptious dish!

What is Tangerine Pork?

Tangerine Pork, also known as Orange Pork or Orange Peel Pork, is a sweet and savory dish that originated from the Hunan Province in China. In the USA, it's a staple in many Chinese-American restaurants, adapted to local tastes.

The Dish:

Imagine succulent pork strips, deep-fried to a crispy golden brown, then tossed in a tantalizing sauce that's both sweet and tangy. That's Tangerine Pork in a nutshell! The dish typically consists of:

1. Crispy fried pork strips: Thinly sliced pork strips, typically made from pork loin or pork belly, are deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. This creates a satisfying crunch on the outside and a juicy interior.

2. Tangerine sauce: A sweet and sour sauce made with a combination of ingredients like tangerine juice or orange marmalade, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and spices. The sauce is simmered until thick and syrupy, coating the fried pork strips.

3. Garnishes: Chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and sometimes toasted almonds or peanuts add a fresh, crunchy texture and a pop of color to the dish.

Taste and Texture:

When you take a bite, the crispy fried pork gives way to a juicy interior, while the tangerine sauce bursts with flavor, coating your taste buds with a sweet and tangy glaze. The combination of textures – crispy, juicy, and crunchy – creates a delightful harmony of sensations in your mouth.

Variations:

Some restaurants might add their own twist to the dish, such as:

Where to find it:

Look for Tangerine Pork on the menus of Chinese-American restaurants, particularly in the USA. It's often listed under "Specialty Dishes" or "House Specialties." Some popular chain restaurants that might carry this dish include P.F. Chang's, Pei Wei, and Chinese restaurants in your local area.

Tips and Variations:

Now that you know the delightful world of Tangerine Pork, go ahead and indulge in this flavorful dish at a Chinese-American restaurant near you!