Norwegian-style Sweet and Spicy Chicken

Ingredients

In this Norwegian adaptation, we incorporate traditional Norwegian ingredients to add a unique twist to the classic General Tso's Chicken. Instead of using soy sauce, we substitute it with a combination of Norwegian soy sauce and fish sauce, which adds a distinct umami flavor. Additionally, we replace the traditional rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar, giving the dish a slightly fruity undertone. The use of local honey enhances the sweetness, while the addition of lingonberry jam adds a touch of tartness and complements the spiciness of the dish. 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) Norwegian soy sauce 1/2 cup (120ml) Norwegian soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
• 2 tablespoons lingonberry jam 2 tablespoons lingonberry jam
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2-3 dried chili peppers, crushed 2-3 dried chili peppers, crushed
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish) 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish Sesame seeds, for garnish

Nutrition

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

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the Norwegian soy sauce, fish sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, lingonberry jam, minced garlic, grated ginger, and crushed chili peppers. Mix well to create the sauce.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. 4.
   In a clean pan, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sauce mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. 5.
   Add the fried chicken pieces to the pan and toss them in the sauce until they are well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Serve the Norwegian-style Sweet and Spicy Chicken garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy it with steamed rice or noodles.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Norwegian soy sauce — Norwegian soy sauce has a milder flavor compared to traditional soy sauce. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
• Lingonberry jam — If lingonberry jam is not available, you can substitute it with cranberry sauce for a similar tartness.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy texture, you can double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the flour mixture, then in beaten egg, and finally back in the flour mixture before frying.
• Adjust the amount of chili peppers according to your spice tolerance.
• Serve the dish with a side of pickled vegetables to add a refreshing contrast to the sweet and spicy flavors.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce while cooking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Serve Norwegian-style Sweet and Spicy Chicken with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an added visual appeal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the chicken pieces on a serving platter and drizzle the sauce over them. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with sliced green onions for an attractive presentation.