Unpacking the Beyond The Original Orange Chicken
For many seeking a meat-free option at Panda Express, the Beyond The Original Orange Chicken is the primary choice. This dish is a result of a partnership between Panda Express and Beyond Meat, aiming to replicate the flavor and texture of the iconic Original Orange Chicken using plant-based protein. The plant-based protein mimics chicken and is breaded, fried, and coated in Panda's signature orange sauce.
The Product's Ingredients and Composition
While the exact recipe is proprietary, the core of the Beyond The Original Orange Chicken includes plant-based proteins from Beyond Meat and a vegan-friendly sauce. The dish generally contains plant-based protein, starches for breading, and the orange sauce made with ingredients like orange juice, sugar, and vinegar. It's important to remember that while the ingredients are plant-based, the cooking method can impact suitability for strict diets.
The Limited Availability and Popularity
The Beyond The Original Orange Chicken is typically a limited-time offering driven by consumer demand. Its reappearances are often popular, but availability is temporary. As of late 2024, it returned to numerous locations, but its future on the menu is not guaranteed.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options Beyond the Orange Chicken
Beyond the Beyond The Original Orange Chicken, Panda Express offers other non-meat items. However, those with strict dietary needs should consider the potential for cross-contamination.
- Eggplant Tofu: This dish combines tofu and eggplant in a sauce and is plant-based by recipe, though regional availability varies.
- Super Greens: A simple, plant-based mix of steamed vegetables.
- Chow Mein: The recipe was updated in 2019 to be vegan-friendly.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Appetizers filled with vegetables and noodles.
- Cream Cheese Rangoons: Vegetarian due to cream cheese, but not vegan.
A Note on Cross-Contamination
Panda Express states that all dishes are prepared in shared kitchens with common woks and fryers. This means that the Beyond The Original Orange Chicken is fried in the same oil as meat products, posing a risk of cross-contamination for strict vegetarians or those with allergies. Diners should assess their comfort level with this risk.
Comparison: Beyond Orange Chicken vs. Original Orange Chicken
| Feature | Beyond The Original Orange Chicken | The Original Orange Chicken |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Plant-based protein (Beyond Meat) | Boneless, skinless chicken dark meat |
| Saturated Fat | Lower saturated fat compared to the original | Higher saturated fat content |
| Cholesterol | Contains 0mg of cholesterol per serving | Contains cholesterol |
| Fiber | Contains dietary fiber | No dietary fiber |
| Sodium | Often higher in sodium | Similar or lower sodium levels |
| Availability | Limited-time offer, check local availability | Permanent menu fixture at all locations |
| Taste/Texture | Designed to replicate the original's taste and texture | Known for its iconic, craveable taste and crunchy texture |
How to Safely Order for Vegetarians
To navigate the Panda Express menu as a vegetarian:
- Check Availability: Confirm if Beyond The Original Orange Chicken is at your specific location via the website or app, as it's not always available.
- Be Aware of Cross-Contamination: Understand that shared cooking equipment means a risk of cross-contact with meat. This is a key factor for strict vegetarians or those with allergies.
- Consider Other Dishes: If the Beyond Orange Chicken is unavailable or cross-contamination is a concern, explore other options like Eggplant Tofu, Super Greens, Chow Mein, Vegetable Spring Rolls, or steamed rice.
- Inquire About Ingredients: If you're unsure about a dish, ask staff about the ingredients, as some items might contain non-vegetarian components despite their appearance.
Conclusion
Panda Express's primary vegetarian meat offering is the limited-time Beyond The Original Orange Chicken, made with Beyond Meat's plant-based protein. While it successfully mimics the flavor and texture of the original, diners should be aware of its temporary availability and the risk of cross-contamination due to shared cooking equipment. Along with other meatless choices, this item reflects Panda Express's move towards including more plant-based options, but individual dietary needs and comfort levels regarding preparation should guide ordering.
For updates on the Beyond The Original Orange Chicken, refer to press releases from Beyond Meat(https://www.beyondmeat.com/en-US/whats-new/beyond-the-original-orange-chicken-expands-to-more-panda-express-locations).
