General Tso's Chicken

Ingredients

While the original General Tso's Chicken is known for its bold flavors and spiciness, this Dutch-inspired version offers a milder and slightly sweeter taste profile. The sauce incorporates Dutch ingredients to add a unique twist, making it more suitable for the Dutch palate. We alse have the original recipe for General Tso's Chicken, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce
• 1/4 cup (60ml) Dutch apple syrup 1/4 cup (60ml) Dutch apple syrup
• 1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar 1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon dried chili flakes (optional) 1/2 teaspoon dried chili flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Spring onions, sliced, for garnish Spring onions, sliced, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish Sesame seeds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 8g (1.5g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 40g (20g sugars)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine soy sauce, Dutch apple syrup, rice vinegar, tomato ketchup, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and dried chili flakes (if using). Mix well to make the sauce.
2. 2.
   Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Coat them in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same skillet, add the sauce mixture and cook over medium heat until it thickens, stirring constantly.
5. 5.
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. 6.
   Serve the Dutch-Inspired General Tso's Chicken over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced spring onions and sesame seeds.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dutch apple syrup — Use a high-quality Dutch apple syrup for an authentic flavor.
• Rice vinegar — Look for rice vinegar with no added sugar for a more balanced taste.
• Tomato ketchup — Opt for a ketchup with no artificial additives or preservatives.
• Cornstarch — Make sure to dissolve the cornstarch in water before adding it to the sauce to prevent lumps.
• Spring onions — Slice the spring onions thinly for a delicate garnish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of dried chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the amount of cornstarch in the sauce mixture.
• Serve the General Tso's Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result.
• Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less Dutch apple syrup according to your taste.

Serving advice

Serve the Dutch-Inspired General Tso's Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced spring onions and sesame seeds for added freshness and texture.

Presentation advice

Arrange the chicken pieces neatly on a plate, drizzle the sauce over them, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh herbs for an elegant touch.