General Tso’s Chicken is an iconic dish that perfectly balances sweetness, spiciness, and savory umami flavors. This beloved Asian-American fusion is a staple in Chinese-American cuisine, featuring crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a glossy, tangy sauce. Its irresistible taste and unique history have made it a favorite for takeout and home-cooked meals alike.
The History of General Tso’s Chicken
Named after a 19th-century Chinese military leader, General Tso Tsung-t’ang, this dish doesn’t have roots in traditional Chinese cooking. Instead, it was created in the United States during the mid-20th century by Chinese chefs adapting their cuisine for American palates. The result is a delicious, fusion-style dish that continues to capture hearts across the globe.
Ingredients for General Tso’s Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1-2 teaspoons red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions, sliced
How to Make General Tso’s Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Coat the Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces in a mixture of cornstarch and flour. Dip each piece into the beaten eggs, then back into the dry mixture for a crispy coating.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
2. Make the Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, sesame oil, and chili flakes.
- Cook the Sauce: In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Pour in the sauce mixture and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Combine and Serve
- Add the fried chicken to the pan with the sauce, tossing to coat each piece evenly.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Perfect General Tso’s Chicken
- Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: Fry the chicken twice for an ultra-crispy texture.
- Adjust Heat Levels: Add more chili flakes or fresh red chilies for a spicier kick.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the dish’s authentic flavors.
- Serve Immediately: The chicken stays crisp when served right after cooking.
Why General Tso’s Chicken is So Popular
General Tso’s Chicken combines bold flavors with a comforting texture. Its balance of sweet and spicy appeals to a wide range of palates. The dish is versatile and can be adapted to different preferences, whether by reducing the sweetness or dialing up the spice.
Pairing Suggestions
To complete your General Tso’s Chicken meal, consider these pairings:
- Sides: Steamed white rice, fried rice, or chow mein noodles.
- Vegetables: Stir-fried broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy.
- Drinks: Green tea, a light beer, or a fruity mocktail.
Conclusion
General Tso’s Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of fusion cuisine that delights with its bold, complex flavors. Whether you’re a fan of takeout or looking to recreate the magic at home, this recipe is a surefire way to impress your taste buds and guests alike.