1 post tagged “the fiery dragon”

Eating at the Dragon always bring back fond memories for me. It is a typical Chinese restaurant that makes you anticipate the savory dishes from the moment you walk in the door. Everything from the décor to the smells from the kitchen are designed to whet your appetite and give you the notion that it's going to be a fun meal.

I don't know when the first Chinese restaurant came up with the black and red checkerboard motif, but today it is the mark of fine Chinese food. From the tiles on the floor to the tablecloths, everything matches and let's you know that this is no greasy take-out joint.

Of course you simply must start every Chinese restaurant meal with appetizers. Everyone loves egg rolls and fried wantons, but why not try an order of steamed dumplings? They are made from sweet wanton skins wrapped around succulent meat. In most places the meat is roasted pork, but since the Dragon follows kosher rules, the dumplings are stuffed with ground beef or lamb. A piquant dipping sauce is served on the side with some scallion slices as a garnish.

There are also many soups to try, and they are especially good on cold days. Of course, wanton and egg drop soup are available, but the dragon also makes a fantastic hot and sour soup. The spicy and sour flavor blend in an exceptional way that always leaves your palate wanting more. But don't get too full, the best is yet to come.

For a main course, I recommend the sesame chicken. Boneless breast of chicken is deep friend until golden brown and coated with roasted sesame seeds. The sauce is tangy, yet not cloying like a sweet and sour sauce. Various Chinese vegetables accompany the dish, which is best served over rice.

Another great entrée is the beef with broccoli. Unlike many places that skimp on the meat, there is just as much beef as there is fresh broccoli. Everything is coated in a brown oyster sauce with hints of jasmine.

When they do have it, which is not often, get a tall glass of pomegranate juice to accompany your meal. The juice comes fresh from Israel and is delightful. It complements any of the entrees but goes especially well with chicken.