Introduction: America’s Test Kitchen General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that is loved by many. It is a dish that is usually made with deep-fried chicken that is then coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. However, there are many variations of this dish, and America’s Test Kitchen has come up with their own version that is sure to impress.
Their recipe for General Tso’s Chicken is a bit different from the traditional recipe, as they have made a few tweaks to make the dish even more delicious. This recipe is perfect for those who are looking to make their own General Tso’s Chicken at home and want to know exactly how to do it.
Ingredients for General Tso’s Chicken
To make General Tso’s Chicken according to America’s Test Kitchen, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 2 large egg whites
- 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
For the sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Preparing the Chicken for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
The first step in making General Tso’s Chicken is to prepare the chicken. Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Then, in a large bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and set aside.
Making the Batter for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the water, vodka, and egg whites. Gradually whisk the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until the batter is smooth.
Frying the Chicken for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
In a large Dutch oven, heat 3 cups of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F. Working in batches, dredge the chicken in the batter, letting any excess drip off before carefully placing it in the hot oil. Fry the chicken until it is golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate.
Preparing the Sauce for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
While the chicken is frying, make the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
Cooking the Sauce for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the chicken broth and the sauce mixture and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Combining the Chicken and the Sauce for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Add the fried chicken to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has coated the chicken evenly.
Garnishing the General Tso’s Chicken
Garnish the General Tso’s Chicken with sliced scallions and sesame seeds.
Serving the General Tso’s Chicken
Serve the General Tso’s Chicken hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Making the Perfect General Tso’s Chicken
- Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier and more flavorful dish.
- Make sure to whisk the batter until it is smooth and has no lumps.
- Fry the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and lowering the oil temperature.
- Don’t overcook the chicken or it will be tough and dry.
- Use a wok or large skillet to make the sauce so that it heats evenly and the sauce thickens properly.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade General Tso’s Chicken
Making General Tso’s Chicken at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you use America’s Test Kitchen’s recipe. By following these simple steps and tips, you can make a delicious and authentic-tasting General Tso’s Chicken that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
