Tso’s Chicken

General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved Chinese-American dish that has found its way into countless restaurants and homes worldwide. This sweet and spicy delight consists of deep-fried chicken pieces coated in a flavorful sauce, often accompanied by steamed vegetables and rice.

Origins of General Tso’s Chicken

The exact origins of General Tso’s Chicken are debated, but it is widely believed to have been created in the 1950s by Chef Peng Chang-kuei, a Taiwanese chef who fled to Taiwan after the Chinese Civil War. Originally named “Zhangzhong ji,” the dish featured steamed chicken coated in a savory sauce.

Over time, the dish evolved to cater to American palates. The recipe was adjusted to be sweeter and spicier, the chicken was deep-fried instead of steamed, and cornstarch was added to thicken the sauce. Vegetables like broccoli and carrots also became common additions.

Ingredients

While variations exist, the essential ingredients for General Tso’s Chicken include:

• Chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Vegetable oil for deep-frying
• Garlic and ginger for added flavor
• Soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar for the sauce
• Cornstarch for thickening
• Scallions and sesame seeds for garnish

Flavor and Variations

General Tso’s Chicken boasts a unique combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. The deep-fried chicken offers a crispy texture, complemented by the rich sauce. Often served with steamed vegetables and rice, the dish balances its spiciness perfectly.

Variations of the dish include:

• Adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms
• Substituting different meats like beef or pork
• Adjusting the spice level to personal preference
• Serving with alternative sides like noodles or dumplings

General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Method of Preparation

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, vinegar, water, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours).

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
3. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Set aside.

Step 3: Making the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds.
3. Whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and cornstarch in a small bowl.
4. Pour the mixture into the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (2-3 minutes).
5. Add water to reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Assembling the Dish

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce.
2. Cook for 1-2 more minutes until fully coated.
3. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds.

General Tso’s Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for a family meal or special occasion. This recipe provides a crispy, sweet, and savory dish that pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables and rice.

Tips for the Best General Tso’s Chicken

• Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor.
• Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots for extra color and nutrients.
• Repurpose leftovers in salads or wraps.
• Experiment with ingredients like bell peppers or mushrooms for variety.

Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking to try something new, General Tso’s Chicken is a must-try dish that brings bold flavors and satisfying textures to your table.