Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

Marinade

The key to an authentic General Tso’s Chicken Recipe lies in the marinade and ingredients used.

Here are some essential ingredients for a flavorful General Tso’s dish:

• Pantry Staples:
• Cornstarch
• Rice vinegar
• Soy sauce
• Vegetable oil
• Ginger paste or minced ginger
• Garlic, minced
• Main Protein:

The star of the dish: boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

• Marinade Components:
• Sweet elements:
  • Honey
  • Brown sugar
• Spicy components:
  • Red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce (optional)
• Umami-rich ingredients:
  • Mushroom soy sauce (or regular soy sauce)
  • Oyster sauce (optional, can be substituted with hoisin sauce)

The marinade should also include rice vinegar and cornstarch for thickness and balance.

* 1 cup soy sauce

In order to create the savory flavors that define Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe, a crucial ingredient must be the foundation – soy sauce. Specifically, 1 cup of soy sauce will serve as this foundational element in our recipe.

Soy sauce is a staple condiment used frequently in Asian cooking due to its ability to add depth and umami flavor to various dishes. In the context of General Tso’s Chicken, which is a Chinese-American creation, it helps balance sweet, sour, and spicy flavors while maintaining an overall savory character.

When utilizing 1 cup of soy sauce within Deb’s recipe or any other dish requiring this condiment, it’s vital to keep in mind that its strength can be quite pronounced. Often, recipes call for a smaller amount due to the potency of soy sauce.

This ingredient works in tandem with other critical components such as cornstarch, vegetable oil, and spices to achieve an authentic yet nuanced flavor profile reminiscent of General Tso’s Chicken at Asian restaurants or take-out establishments.

It’s worth noting that for individuals seeking a lower sodium version of Deb’s recipe, substituting part of the soy sauce with tamari or Nama shoyu might provide a closer approximation to traditional General Tso’s flavors without elevating the overall salt content excessively.

In any case, regardless of modifications made for health reasons or personal taste preferences, using high-quality soy sauce as directed in Deb’s recipe will undoubtedly be an essential element that enhances every bite and solidifies this dish as a culinary delight that satisfies both traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike.

* 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine

The ingredients used in Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe include a variety of essential components that come together to create this popular Chinese-American dish.

One of the key ingredients is Shaoxing wine, a type of rice wine commonly used in Chinese cooking. The amount needed is approximately 1/4 cup, which should be added in small increments to avoid overpowering the other flavors in the recipe.

It’s worth noting that Shaoxing wine has a distinct flavor and aroma profile that pairs well with the sweetness of the sauce and the crunch of the vegetables. Its use is essential in achieving the authentic taste of General Tso’s Chicken.

The benefits of using Shaoxing wine include its ability to add depth and complexity to the dish, while also helping to balance out the flavors. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes beyond General Tso’s Chicken, making it a valuable addition to any pantry.

Here are some additional facts about Shaoxing wine:

• Shaoxing wine is made from glutinous rice and has a sweet and slightly sour taste.
• It’s a popular ingredient in Chinese cooking, particularly when used to marinate or stir-fry proteins and vegetables.
• The name “Shaoxing” refers to the city in China where this wine originated.
• Shaoxing wine can be found at most Asian grocery stores or online retailers.

In summary, Shaoxing wine is a key ingredient in Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe that adds depth and complexity to the dish. Its use is essential for achieving the authentic taste of this popular Chinese-American dish.

* 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Cornstarch is an essential ingredient in many Asian-inspired sauces and marinades, including the classic General Tso’s sauce used in this recipe.

In terms of its role in cooking, cornstarch serves as a thickening agent, helping to achieve a smooth and velvety texture for sauces and gravies.

When mixed with liquid ingredients such as water or broth, cornstarch breaks down and forms a paste that helps to thicken the mixture.

In the context of General Tso’s sauce, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch are typically used to thicken the sauce and give it a rich, savory flavor.

When cooked with soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, and ginger, among other ingredients, the cornstarch helps to balance out the flavors and create a harmonious taste experience.

Cooking with cornstarch also requires some care, as it can form lumps if not mixed properly or if the heat is too high.

To avoid this issue, cooks should mix the cornstarch with a small amount of liquid before adding it to the sauce, and stir constantly while cooking to ensure that the mixture heats evenly and doesn’t form lumps.

Overall, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch play an important role in General Tso’s sauce, helping to create a delicious and savory dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

The first ingredient we’ll be using for Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is vegetable oil, which serves as a crucial component in cooking the dish to perfection.

In this particular recipe, we’re required to use 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, which may seem like a small amount but plays a significant role in the overall flavor and texture of the final product.

Vegetable oil is used as a neutral-tasting oil that can handle high heat without breaking down or smoking, making it an excellent choice for stir-frying and sautéing ingredients in the recipe.

The use of 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil also helps to prevent sticking and promotes even cooking by allowing the chicken and vegetables to cook uniformly without any hotspots or undercooked areas.

When selecting a vegetable oil for this recipe, it’s essential to choose one that is high in smoke point, meaning it can withstand high temperatures without breaking down or becoming unhealthy.

Some excellent options for vegetable oil include avocado oil, peanut oil, and grapeseed oil, which all have high smoke points and are suitable for use in cooking at high temperatures.

In the context of Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe, the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil will be used to cook the chicken and vegetables in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

* 4 cloves garlic, minced

Garlic is an essential ingredient in many Chinese recipes, and it plays a crucial role in Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken dish. For this recipe, we need to mince 4 cloves of garlic.

Mince means to chop or cut the garlic into very small pieces. This will help to release the flavor and aroma of the garlic as it cooks. When working with garlic, it’s essential to use fresh bulbs for the best flavor.

The amount of garlic required is 4 cloves, which might seem like a lot, but trust us; this amount adds depth and richness to the sauce without overpowering other flavors in the dish. The key is to balance the savory taste of the chicken with the spicy and slightly sweet elements that make General Tso’s Chicken so iconic.

The mincing process should be done just before using the garlic, as the flavor and aroma of minced garlic can dissipate quickly once exposed to air. Be sure to have a clean knife and cutting board at hand for this task.

* 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

In Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe, one of the key ingredients is **ginger**.

Ginger adds a unique flavor and aroma to the dish, which pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory elements of the sauce.

For this recipe, you will need 1 tablespoon of _grated ginger_.

To grate the ginger, you can use a **microplane** or a fine grater. This will help to release the oils and flavors of the ginger.

Ginger is a popular ingredient in many Asian dishes, including stir-fries, soups, and sauces. It has a warm, spicy flavor that complements the sweetness of ingredients like chicken and vegetables.

Some of the benefits of using ginger include:

• Reducing inflammation: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce pain and swelling in the body.
• Supporting digestive health: Ginger can help to alleviate nausea and other symptoms of digestive disorders.
• Aiding in cold relief: Ginger has natural decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to relieve symptoms of a cold or flu.

In terms of substituting ginger, you may be able to use fresh galangal, but it’s not a direct substitute. Galangal is a similar spice to ginger but has a stronger, more pungent flavor. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Another option for substituting ginger is using dried ginger powder. However, keep in mind that the flavor will be less intense than fresh grated ginger.

Instructions and Tips

Cooking the Chicken

To cook the chicken for Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe, follow these steps carefully.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces.

1. Place the chicken in a shallow dish and set aside for later use.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper to make a marinade.

• Pour the marinade over the chicken in the dish, making sure that each piece is coated evenly.

Step 3: Let it Sit

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat about 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

1. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until it is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the chicken from the heat and place it in a serving dish. You can now serve it with your favorite General Tso’s sauce or as part of Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe.

* Debone 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bitesized pieces

Deboning boneless chicken can be a bit tricky, but with the right technique, you can achieve perfectly deboned and bite-sized pieces for your General Tso’s Chicken recipe.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Select 1 pound of boneless chicken breast or thighs and place it on a cutting board. Rinse the chicken under cold water, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, and set it aside.

Removing the Skin (if applicable)

• If you have boneless skin-on chicken, place it on a flat surface and locate the thin layer of fat that attaches the skin to the meat. Use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to carefully cut along this layer, separating the skin from the meat.

• Once separated, use your fingers or a blunt instrument (like the back of a spoon) to gently pry the skin away from the meat in one piece.

Removing Excess Fat and Bones (if applicable)

• If you have boneless chicken thighs, you may need to remove excess fat or connective tissue. Use a sharp knife to carefully trim away any excess fat, taking care not to cut too deeply and damage the surrounding meat.

Deboning Boneless Chicken Breast

Since boneless chicken breast is already deboned, you can skip this step altogether. However, if you need to remove any excess fat or imperfections, now is a good time to do so.

Cutting the Deboned Chicken into Bite-Sized Pieces

• Place the deboned chicken on a cutting board and cut it into bite-sized pieces. You can use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to achieve even, uniform cuts.

• Aim for pieces that are about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in length and width, depending on your desired serving size.

Preparing the Chicken for Cooking

• Once you have deboned and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

• This helps ensure that your General Tso’s Chicken recipe cooks evenly and quickly, with a crispy exterior and tender interior.

* In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Add garlic and ginger; mix until combined.

To make a delicious General Tso’s Chicken dish, it’s essential to follow these instructions and tips carefully.

Preparation

Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools within reach. The following is a list of what you’ll need:

1. Soy sauce
2. Shaoxing wine
3. Cornstarch
4. Garlic
5. Ginger

Now, let’s focus on the key to this recipe: marinating the chicken. To achieve tender and flavorful meat, follow these steps:

1. In a shallow dish or a ziplock bag, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Add garlic and ginger to the marinade mixture; mix well to combine. The amount of garlic and ginger is up to personal preference, so feel free to adjust according to taste.
3. Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 1 inch or 2.5 cm) and add it to the marinade. Ensure that all the chicken pieces are coated evenly with the marinade by gently tossing them together.
4. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be.

Once you’re ready to cook the chicken, heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside for a moment. In the same wok or skillet, pour in the marinade mixture (the liquid from the bowl) and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

To serve your delicious General Tso’s Chicken dish, place the cooked chicken on top of steamed vegetables or rice, and pour the hot sauce over it. Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and other toppings as desired. Enjoy!

* Add the marinade to the chicken; coat evenly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes

To achieve the perfect General Tso’s chicken, follow these instructions and tips:

MARINADE PREPARATION

1. Combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl.
2. Mix well to create a smooth marinade. Make sure all the ingredients are fully incorporated and there are no lumps.

ADDING MARINADE TO THE CHICKEN

• Add the marinade to the chicken; coat evenly by gently tossing the chicken in the marinade, making sure every piece is fully coated.
• Take your time and make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. You can use your hands or a pair of gloves to prevent over-handling the meat.

REFRIGERATION TIME

1. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. This will allow the chicken to fully absorb the flavors of the marinade.
2. Keep in mind that the longer it sits, the more flavorful the chicken will be. However, if you’re short on time, even 30 minutes is better than nothing!

TIPS AND REMINDERS

• When working with raw meat, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and keep the workspace clean and sanitized.
• Don’t overcrowd the bowl when mixing the marinade. Give it enough space to mix properly and prevent any ingredients from getting stuck together.

* Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over mediumhigh heat

To successfully prepare Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken, it’s essential to follow a few key instructions and tips for heating the oil in the wok or large skillet.

The first step involves heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. It’s crucial to choose the right type of oil for this recipe, as some oils have lower smoke points that may burn when exposed to high temperatures. Vegetable oil is a good choice because it can handle high heat without breaking down or smoking.

When heating the oil, make sure the wok or skillet is clean and dry before adding the oil. This will prevent any food residue from burning and sticking to the pan. If you’re using a non-stick coating on your wok or skillet, avoid using high heat as it may damage the non-stick surface.

To achieve the ideal temperature for frying the chicken, ensure that the oil reaches its smoking point before adding the chicken pieces. This is typically around 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C) for vegetable oil. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature if you have one, or check the smoke point by gently placing a piece of bread into the hot oil – it should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately.

Once the oil is at the correct temperature, carefully add the chicken pieces to the wok or skillet in batches if necessary. Be cautious when handling hot pans and never leave them unattended, as the oil can quickly reach its smoke point and cause a fire if not monitored properly.

In addition to heating the oil correctly, it’s essential to cook the General Tso’s sauce separately before combining it with the chicken. This allows each component to develop their distinct flavors without overpowering one another. Simply heat the sauce ingredients in a separate pan over medium heat, then stir-fry them together until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly.

Finally, to assemble Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe, combine the cooked chicken with the prepared General Tso’s sauce, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve immediately. This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as the flavors will meld together perfectly when served hot and steaming.

By following these instructions and tips for heating the oil in the wok or large skillet, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and authentic General Tso’s Chicken dish that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Assembly and Serving

Tossing with Sauce and Garnishing

When it comes to preparing and serving a dish like Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken, attention to detail in assembly and presentation can elevate the overall dining experience.

The first step in assembling this popular Chinese-American dish is to ensure that all components are cooked to perfection and ready for plating.

Deb’s recipe calls for marinated chicken breast or thighs to be deep-fried until crispy, then coated with a sweet and savory General Tso’s sauce made from ingredients like hoisin sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch.

To assemble the dish, arrange the cooked chicken on a serving plate or platter, leaving space for the various garnishes and toppings that will add flavor, texture, and visual appeal to each bite.

The next step is tossing the cooked ingredients with sauce, which involves carefully coating the chicken with the General Tso’s sauce using tongs or a spatula, making sure it adheres evenly and doesn’t get too messy.

To garnish the dish, Deb suggests sprinkling scallions or green onions over the top of the chicken, followed by sesame seeds for added crunch and nutty flavor.

Additional garnishes can include sliced fresh ginger, minced garlic, diced bell peppers, sliced almonds or cashews, and pickled ginger, each adding its unique character to the overall presentation.

The finishing touches might also involve drizzling a bit of extra sesame oil over the top of the dish or sprinkling some chopped scallions on top for added freshness and color.

* In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and cornstarch

The process of assembly and serving for Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe involves several key steps to bring together all the components and create a delicious and visually appealing dish.

Assembly and Serving Instructions

To assemble and serve Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken, follow these instructions:

1. Gather all the prepared ingredients, including the cooked chicken, broccoli, sauce, scallions, and fried noodles.

2. Place a portion of the fried noodles on each plate or serving dish.

3. Arrange the broccoli florets on top of the noodles.

4. Add the cooked chicken to the plate, making sure it’s in a single layer.

5. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture.

6. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds (if using).

For the sauce, you’ll need to whisk together a few ingredients in a separate bowl. Here are those instructions:

Sauce Ingredients Whisking Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.

2. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well combined.

3. Add the whisked sauce to the chicken and broccoli mixture in step 5 above.

This process should yield a delicious and visually appealing General Tso’s Chicken dish, complete with crispy fried noodles, tender chicken, and a savory sweet sauce. Enjoy!

* Remove the chicken from marinade; pat dry with paper towels. Add to the wok or skillet and stirfry until browned and cooked through.

In this step-by-step guide on Assembly and Serving, we will focus on completing Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe by executing a few key tasks that bring the entire dish together.

After marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch, it is time to cook the chicken. The first step in this process involves carefully removing the chicken from its marinade while taking care not to splash any liquid.

Once the chicken has been removed from the marinade, use paper towels to gently pat the surface of each piece dry. This step helps remove excess moisture from the chicken’s surface, ensuring that it cooks evenly and develops a nice golden-brown color.

Next, heat up a wok or large skillet over high heat until it reaches its smoking point. Add a small amount of oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom.

Add the chicken pieces to the hot pan in a single layer, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until it is browned and cooked through.

Once the chicken has finished cooking, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. The next step involves preparing the sauce by adding soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, hoisin sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and scallions to the pan.

Stir the sauce over medium heat until it thickens slightly, then add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute. This step ensures that the chicken is well coated with the savory General Tso’s sauce.

Finally, serve the finished General Tso’s Chicken hot over steamed vegetables or rice, garnished with additional scallions if desired. The combination of crispy, spicy, and savory flavors in this dish makes it a true culinary masterpiece.

* Toss with the prepared sauce and garnish with sesame seeds, scallions, and fried noodles (if using).

In this crucial final step of Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken Recipe, Assembly and Serving play a vital role in bringing together all the flavors and textures created throughout the cooking process.

First, ensure that your wok or large skillet is hot and ready for assembly. This is usually achieved by adding a small amount of oil to the pan and letting it heat up for about a minute over medium-high heat.

To begin assembly, add the prepared General Tso’s sauce (which should have been simmering on low heat) into the wok or skillet. If using a sauce made with cornstarch or flour as a thickening agent, this is the perfect time to add it. Stir quickly and constantly over medium-high heat until the sauce has reached your desired consistency.

Next, add the cooked General Tso’s chicken back into the wok or skillet. The sauce will help bind all the flavors together and add moisture to the dish.

Now, for the garnish. This is where creativity and personal preference come into play. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the chicken for added crunch and flavor.

Add sliced scallions (green onions) on top of the chicken as a fresh and herbaceous note to balance out the richness of the dish.

Finally, if using, sprinkle some fried noodles or crispy fried wonton strips over the top for an added textural element. These noodles should be crispy and golden brown for maximum flavor and crunch.

The completed General Tso’s Chicken is now ready to serve. Transfer it immediately to a serving dish or individual plates, garnish with any remaining scallions or sesame seeds if desired, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!