Panda Express Tests Pork Belly and New Healthier Sides at Latest Panda + Tea Location

Panda Express is testing a new pork belly entree as well as three new healthier sides, including Quinoa Brown Fried Rice, at their latest (and fourth) Panda + Tea Bar restaurant in Pasadena, CA.

New Honey Glazed Pork Belly takes its cue from Chinese char siu pork and features pork belly that is cooked sous vide for five hours, smoked, and then flash-fried and tossed in a wok with a "Chinese-inspired honey barbecue sauce" to bring it to temperature before serving. Like the chain's Angus Steak, it's counted as a premium entree and carries a $1.25 upgrade charge.

The new vegetable-based "Fresh Favorite" sides, which are offered in addition to the chain's chow mein, fried rice, and white steamed rice include:

- Quinoa Brown Fried Rice - Featuring quinoa, brown rice, egg, and cabbage.

- Glazed Carrots & Brussels Sprouts - Lightly-glazed and stir-fried with soy sauce and chili paste.

- Kale, Cabbage, & Broccoli Stir-Fry - A wok-tossed blend of garlic, kale, cabbage, and broccoli.

Panda + Tea Bar locations also offer salad mix as a side option (salad mix is not available at regular Panda Express locations).

The chain also serves new $2 snack boxes of vegetables at the new location. The options consists of Vegetable Crudites (a variety of cut vegetable sticks with miso dipping sauce) and Five Spice Edamame. The boxes cater to those looking for a quick on-the-go, healthy snack option.

They're also testing a new version of their Kung Pao Chicken made with black vinegar and Chinese long beans (which contribute a more intense green bean-type flavor).

Photo via Panda Express.