What Is General Tso’s Chicken?
General Tso’s Chicken is a delicious and iconic dish consisting of deep-fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce, predominantly found in American Chinese restaurants. It’s a far cry from traditional Hunan cuisine, despite its claimed origins.
Origins: A Culinary Mystery
The exact origins of General Tso’s Chicken remain shrouded in culinary mystery, though most accounts credit Peng Chang-kuei, a Hunanese chef who fled to Taiwan after the Communist revolution. He reportedly created the dish in the 1950s, although its specific composition differed significantly from what is commonly served today. The name “General Tso” refers to Zuo Zongtang (also romanized as Tso Tsung-t’ang), a Qing dynasty general and statesman. However, there’s no evidence to suggest that General Tso ever ate or had any association with the dish.
From Taiwan to American Tables
The dish migrated to the United States in the 1970s, quickly gaining popularity in New York City. Chef T. T. Wang is often credited with introducing a sweeter, more heavily sauced version of the dish, which ultimately became the standard American interpretation.
The Defining Characteristics
General Tso’s Chicken is defined by several key characteristics:
Chicken Preparation: Typically uses boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces, marinated, breaded, and deep-fried until crispy.
The Sauce: A complex blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch, chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and often hoisin sauce. This creates the signature sweet, spicy, and tangy flavor profile.
Presentation: Usually served with steamed rice and often garnished with broccoli florets, green onions, and sesame seeds.
Key Differences from Traditional Hunan Cuisine
While General Tso’s Chicken is marketed as a Hunan dish, it differs significantly from authentic Hunan cuisine:
Sweetness: Hunan cuisine generally emphasizes spicy and savory flavors over sweetness. General Tso’s Chicken is significantly sweeter.
Spice Level: While spicy, the heat in General Tso’s Chicken is often milder and more balanced compared to the fiery heat of authentic Hunan dishes.
Ingredients: Some ingredients, such as hoisin sauce and copious amounts of sugar, are not commonly used in traditional Hunan cooking.
Variations Across Restaurants
Despite the general consensus on the dish, variations exist from restaurant to restaurant. These variations can include:
Spice Level: Some restaurants offer “extra spicy” versions with more chili peppers.
Sauce Consistency: The thickness of the sauce can vary.
Vegetable Additions: Some restaurants may include other vegetables like bell peppers or water chestnuts.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 500-700 |
| Fat | 25-40g |
| Carbohydrates | 50-70g |
| Protein | 30-40g |
Note: These values are approximate and can vary significantly depending on the specific recipe and serving size.
Health Considerations
While delicious, General Tso’s Chicken is typically high in calories, fat, sodium, and sugar. Moderation is key when indulging in this dish. Consider ordering smaller portions or requesting less sauce.
General Tso’s Chicken: Global Appeal
General Tso’s Chicken has become a quintessential American Chinese dish, enjoyed by millions worldwide. Its accessibility and appealing flavor profile have contributed to its enduring popularity. It represents a fascinating example of culinary adaptation and the creation of a distinctly Americanized version of Chinese cuisine.
The Home Chef’s Take
Many home cooks enjoy recreating General Tso’s Chicken in their own kitchens. Numerous recipes are available online, allowing for customization and control over ingredients and spice levels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the history of the name “General Tso”?
The dish is named after Zuo Zongtang (General Tso), a prominent Qing dynasty general. However, there is no documented connection between the general and the dish. It’s believed the chef, Peng Chang-kuei, simply chose the name for its prestige and association with Hunan.
Is General Tso’s Chicken authentic Chinese food?
While influenced by Hunan cuisine, General Tso’s Chicken is not considered an authentic or traditional Chinese dish. It is a uniquely American creation, adapted to suit American tastes.
What are the key ingredients in the sauce?
The key ingredients in General Tso’s Chicken sauce typically include soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch (for thickening), chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and sometimes hoisin sauce. The precise ratios vary depending on the recipe.
Can I make General Tso’s Chicken at home?
Absolutely! Many recipes are available online, allowing you to customize the ingredients and spice level to your preference. Making it at home can also be a healthier alternative, as you can control the amount of sugar and oil used.
What is the best way to make the chicken crispy?
To achieve maximum crispiness, ensure the chicken pieces are thoroughly dried before breading. Use a cornstarch-based coating for optimal crispness and deep-fry in hot oil (around 350-375°F) in small batches.
What is the difference between General Tso’s Chicken and Sesame Chicken?
While both dishes feature deep-fried chicken and a sweet sauce, General Tso’s Chicken is spicier and tangier, while Sesame Chicken is sweeter and has a prominent sesame flavor. Sesame Chicken also features sesame seeds in the sauce and as a garnish.
Can I make General Tso’s Chicken vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with tofu, seitan, or even cauliflower florets. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What are some common variations of General Tso’s Chicken?
Common variations include adjusting the spice level (mild, medium, hot), the sweetness of the sauce, and the vegetables included (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli).
What is the ideal side dish to serve with General Tso’s Chicken?
The most common side dish is steamed white rice, which provides a neutral base to balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Other options include fried rice, lo mein, or steamed vegetables.
Is General Tso’s Chicken gluten-free?
Traditional General Tso’s Chicken is typically not gluten-free due to the use of soy sauce and wheat flour in the breading. However, you can easily make a gluten-free version by using tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) and gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the breading.
How can I make the sauce less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, decrease the amount of sugar in the sauce recipe and consider adding a bit more rice vinegar or soy sauce to balance the flavors.
What’s the secret to a good General Tso’s Chicken sauce?
The secret lies in balancing the sweet, spicy, and tangy elements. Taste as you go and adjust the ingredients until you achieve the desired flavor profile. Fresh ginger and garlic are also essential for a vibrant sauce.