General Tso’s Chicken: A Flavorful and Irresistible Chinese Delight

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General Tso’s Chicken is a popular and irresistible Chinese dish that boasts a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Tender pieces of chicken are coated in a crispy batter, then smothered in a delicious sauce that will leave you craving for more. Learn how to recreate this delectable dish at home and savor the authentic taste of General Tso’s Chicken.

General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved dish that has become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine. With its tantalizing combination of textures and bold flavors, it has won the hearts of food enthusiasts around the world. Whether you enjoy it as a takeout treat or prepare it at home, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey to discover the secrets of making General Tso’s Chicken. From the crispy chicken to the flavorful sauce, you’ll learn how to master this classic Chinese dish and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills.

Table of Contents

What is General Tso’s Chicken?

General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish made with bite-sized pieces of chicken that are coated in a light batter and deep-fried until crispy. The chicken is then tossed in a sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce that is bursting with flavor.

The dish is characterized by its tantalizing blend of sweet and savory tastes, with a hint of heat from the chili peppers. It is often served with steamed rice or as part of a Chinese-American combo meal with other delicious sides.

The Legend of General Tso

Contrary to popular belief, General Tso’s Chicken is not named after a famous military figure. In fact, there is no historical evidence linking the dish to General Tso himself. The origins of the dish are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been created by Chinese chefs in New York City during the 1970s.

The dish was inspired by traditional Hunanese cuisine, known for its bold and spicy flavors. Over the years, General Tso’s Chicken has evolved into a beloved dish that has become a mainstay in Chinese-American restaurants and takeout menus.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make General Tso’s Chicken at home, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup of cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup of soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup of rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup of chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons of hoisin sauce
  • 3 tablespoons of brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon of minced ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 4-6 dried red chili peppers
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Preparation

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch and eggs to create a batter. Add the chicken pieces to the batter and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chicken broth, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar to create the sauce. Set aside.
  3. In a wok or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the battered chicken pieces and cook until they are golden and crispy. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  4. In the same wok, add the minced garlic, minced ginger, red pepper flakes, and dried red chili peppers. Stir-fry for a minute or until fragrant.
  5. Pour the prepared sauce into the wok and stir to combine with the aromatics. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly.
  6. Add the fried chicken back into the wok and toss it in the sauce until each piece is coated.
  7. Remove the General Tso’s Chicken from the wok and transfer it to a serving dish.
  8. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an added touch of freshness and flavor.
  9. Serve the General Tso’s Chicken hot with steamed rice and enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite.

Tips for Perfect General Tso’s Chicken

  • If you prefer a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers to the sauce.
  • For an extra crispy texture, you can double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the batter again before frying.
  • If you want to make the dish healthier, you can bake the battered chicken in the oven instead of deep-frying it.
  • Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar, depending on your taste preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat. However, thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

2. Can I make General Tso’s Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce to make the dish gluten-free.

3. Can I substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option?

Yes, you can use firm tofu instead of chicken for a delicious vegetarian version of General Tso’s Tofu.

4. How do I store leftover General Tso’s Chicken?

Store any leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

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