Dish

General Tso's Chicken

General Tso's Chicken is made by coating chicken pieces in a batter made from cornstarch and egg whites and then deep-frying them until crispy. The chicken is then tossed in a sauce made from soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and other seasonings. The dish is typically served with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.

Asian cuisine› Chinese cuisine

Stir-fry

Origins and history

General Tso's Chicken is a relatively new dish that was created in the United States in the 1970s. It is named after General Tso Tsung-tang, a Chinese military leader from the Qing dynasty. However, there is no evidence to suggest that the dish has any connection to General Tso or his cuisine.

Dietary considerations

General Tso's Chicken is a high-calorie and high-fat dish that should be enjoyed in moderation. It is also high in sodium due to the soy sauce and other seasonings used in the sauce. However, the dish is a good source of protein from the chicken.

Variations

There are many variations of General Tso's Chicken, with some recipes calling for different ingredients or cooking methods. Some recipes also call for the addition of vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, to add some nutrition to the dish. The dish can also be made vegetarian by using tofu or tempeh instead of chicken.

Presentation and garnishing

General Tso's Chicken is typically served on a large platter with the rice and vegetables on the side. The dish should be garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions to add some color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure that the chicken is crispy and not greasy, it is important to use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature of the oil. The chicken should be cooked in small batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping too much. Be sure to drain the chicken on paper towels before tossing it in the sauce to remove any excess oil.

Side-dishes

Steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables are the perfect side dishes for General Tso's Chicken, as they help to balance out the richness of the dish. A simple green salad can also be served on the side to add some color and nutrition to the meal.

Drink pairings

A light beer or a glass of white wine pairs well with General Tso's Chicken. The beer's carbonation helps to cut through the richness of the dish, while the wine's acidity complements the flavors of the chicken and sauce.