Savoring the Flavors of Ming Garden: A Culinary Delight in Champaign
Nestled in a residential area of Champaign, Illinois, Ming Garden restaurant has long been a local favorite for its exceptional Asian cuisine. Specializing in a diverse menu of delectable dishes, this establishment has earned a reputation for delivering quality, quick, and affordable meals that satisfy the palates of its loyal patrons. Recently, we had the opportunity to indulge in a takeout feast from Ming Garden, and the experience left us craving for more.
Elevating the Ordinary into the Extraordinary
Egg Drop Soup: A Comforting Start
The egg drop soup at Ming Garden is a classic that lives up to its reputation. Ordering a pint-sized portion (.80), we were delighted to find a generous serving of the golden broth, brimming with a liberal amount of egg. The soup's chicken-based flavor was well-balanced, and the addition of crispy wontons provided a delightful textural contrast, making it the perfect appetizer and palate cleanser between the various main dishes we sampled.
General Tso's Chicken: A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite
Ming Garden's take on the beloved General Tso's chicken (.55) was a standout. The lightly fried chicken pieces were firm and crispy, with a slight sweetness in the sauce that complemented the dish's advertised spiciness. While the heat level was not as intense as some other versions, the dish still packed a pleasant punch, and the inclusion of perfectly cooked broccoli florets added a welcomed textural and nutritional element.
Kung Pao Beef: A Spicy Delight
The kung pao beef, available in a pint-size portion (.65), was a delightful blend of tender beef, a wealth of fresh vegetables, and a satisfying spicy kick. The thin-sliced beef was expertly stir-fried, and the vegetables, including onions, carrots, peppers, celery, bamboo shoots, and baby corn, were cooked to perfection, retaining their crunch and vibrant colors. The sauce, while not overpowering, provided a pleasant heat that enhanced the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Pork Moo Shu: A Hearty and Messy Affair
The pork moo shu (.25) was a substantial offering, featuring a generous portion of julienned pork, scrambled egg, and a medley of vegetables, including carrots, cabbage, and onions, all in a brothy sauce. While the filling was delicious, the dish proved to be quite messy due to the sauce's consistency. In the future, we may consider forgoing the accompanying crepes and simply enjoying the flavorful filling on its own.
Triple Delight: A Harmonious Blend
One of Ming Garden's specialties, the triple delight (.15), showcased a harmonious blend of thinly sliced chicken, pork, and beef, accompanied by a plethora of fresh vegetables, including carrots, celery, broccoli, snow peas, onion, napa cabbage, and baby corn. The cookery on all the components was exceptional, though the sauce was slightly less bold in flavor compared to the spicier dishes we sampled.
Lemon Chicken: A Refreshing Alternative
Based on a friend's recommendation, we decided to try the lemon chicken (.95), and we were not disappointed. The presentation was visually appealing, with the chicken pieces enrobed in a fluffy, crispy crust. Thoughtfully, the lemon sauce was packaged separately, preventing the chicken from becoming soggy. The sauce itself had an excellent balance of tartness and sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast to the expertly cooked chicken.Overall, our experience at Ming Garden was a delightful one. Each dish we sampled showcased high-quality ingredients, skilled preparation, and generous portions, making them ideal for sharing or enjoying as leftovers. The variety of vegetables incorporated into the stir-fried dishes was a testament to the restaurant's commitment to providing a well-rounded and nutritious dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for a classic like General Tso's chicken or a unique offering like the lemon chicken, Ming Garden is sure to satisfy your cravings for exceptional Asian cuisine.
