If you’ve ever dined at a Chinese restaurant, chances are that you’ve heard of moo goo gai pan. The dish is a traditional staple of Cantonese cuisine, and it’s widely regarded as a filling and flavorful option enjoyed for lunch and dinner. What sets it apart from other items on the menu is its fascinating history, which you can learn more about below.

What Is Moo Goo Gai Pan?

In its simplest and most traditional form, moo goo gai pan consists of chicken, mushrooms, and occasionally vegetables like water chestnuts and bok choy. Such a dish is a key part of Chinese cuisine. Yet, the meal was refashioned in America with a heartier portion of vegetables and a thicker sauce base. 

Conventionally, this dish is prepared with a much thinner sauce consisting of chicken broth, garlic, ginger, and scallions. The American version, however, usually has soy sauce and vegetables added to the blend, with some even incorporating oyster sauce.

What Are Its Origins?

As Chinese restaurants grew in popularity in the early 19th century, cooks began to adapt native cuisine to reflect the tastes of Americans. They also modified their recipes due to the lack of particular ingredients. Among the dishes that resulted from these changes was a blend of stir-fried mushrooms and chicken combined with soy sauce. The dish became increasingly popular as menus took on a more “Americanized” edge.

Today, moo goo gai pan is one of the most popular items on the menu — but it has also become a more generic term used to describe a variety of stir-fried dishes incorporating different ingredients that extend beyond just poultry. Some restaurants, for example, can use the name to describe variations that feature pork or shrimp.

If you’re craving authentic moo goo gai pan in Penfield, NY, head straight for Hong Wah Restaurant. The Chinese restaurant caters to even the pickiest eaters, offering dishes rooted in traditional recipes and made with only the freshest ingredients. Visit the website to explore their menu, or call (585) 385-2808 to place an order for takeout.