Delicious Chinese Chicken Recipes: General Tso
When it comes to Chinese cuisine, General Tso’s chicken is a dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people all over the world. This iconic recipe features crispy deep-fried chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that is simply irresistible. If you’re looking to recreate this classic dish at home, we’ve got you covered with some fantastic recipes that will have you feeling like a top chef in no time!
History of General Tso’s Chicken
General Tso’s chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that is believed to have originated in the Hunan province of China. The dish is named after General Tso Tsung-tang, a Qing dynasty military leader, although there is no direct connection between the dish and the general himself. General Tso’s chicken made its way to the United States in the 1970s and quickly became a staple on Chinese restaurant menus across the country.
Ingredients for General Tso’s Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
To make General Tso’s chicken, start by coating the chicken pieces in cornstarch and frying them until crispy. In a separate pan, sauté the green onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Then, add the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes to the pan and bring to a simmer. Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss until well coated. Serve hot over rice and garnish with sesame seeds and additional green onions. Enjoy!
Variations
While the classic General Tso’s chicken recipe is delicious on its own, there are endless possibilities for customization. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the dish for a pop of color and extra nutrients. For a healthier twist, try baking the chicken instead of frying it. You can also adjust the level of spice by adding more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
General Tso’s chicken is a beloved dish for good reason – it’s flavorful, crispy, and just a little bit spicy. With these fantastic recipes and tips, you’ll be able to recreate this iconic dish at home with ease. So put on your apron, grab your wok, and get ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
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