General Tso's Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken [00:39-01:44]

• Cut about 10 oz of chicken breast into pieces.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken [01:46-02:20]

• In a bowl, add chicken pieces.
• Add 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 egg, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and 1/2 tbsp water.
• Mix well and massage the chicken to coat evenly.
• Let the chicken marinate for 10-20 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter [02:24-03:34]

• In a separate bowl, combine 3 tbsp flour, 1 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tsp baking powder, and the remaining 1/2 egg.
• Add about 4 tbsp water initially, then add more water (up to 1.5 tbsp more) to achieve a smooth, slightly thick but pourable batter.
• Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the batter to prevent clumping and add shine.
• Mix thoroughly to remove lumps.

Step 4: Prepare Aromatics and Vegetables [03:40-04:40]

• Mince 2 garlic cloves and a few slices of ginger.
• Chop about 1-2 oz (1/3) red bell pepper.
• Optional: prepare broccoli or sliced tomato for garnish.

Step 5: Heat Oil for Frying [04:40-06:59]

• Pour corn oil into a wok or deep pan, enough to submerge chicken pieces.
• Heat oil to about 300°F (149°C) for the first fry.
• Test oil temperature by dropping a bit of batter; it should float immediately but not brown instantly.

Step 6: Coat Chicken with Batter and Fry (First Fry) [08:42-10:37]

• Mix marinated chicken with the prepared batter.
• Add chicken pieces slowly into hot oil, avoiding overcrowding to prevent sticking.
• Fry until golden yellow and juices start to sizzle, about 10 minutes.
• Remove chicken and drain.

Step 7: Heat Oil for Second Fry [10:47-10:56]

• Reheat oil to 350-400°F (176-204°C) for the second fry.

Step 8: Fry Chicken Again (Second Fry) [10:56-11:58]

• Return chicken pieces to hot oil.
• Fry for 1-2 minutes until skin becomes crispy and golden brown.
• Remove and drain.

Step 9: Make the Sauce [12:25-13:12]

• Scoop some frying oil into a pan and heat until shimmering.
• Add 4 dried chili peppers and cook for 10-15 seconds.
• Add minced garlic and ginger; stir and cook for 20-30 seconds.
• Pour in the sauce mixture: 2 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp dark soy sauce, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp vinegar, 1 tbsp ketchup, and 1/2 tsp white pepper.
• Stir and cook for 20-30 seconds.
• Add cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) to thicken sauce; stir for 20-30 seconds.
• Add chopped red bell peppers and 1 tsp sesame oil; cook for another 30 seconds.
• Adjust sauce thickness by adding more cornstarch or water if needed.

Step 10: Combine and Serve [13:14-13:56]

• Pour sauce over the fried chicken and toss to coat evenly.
• Garnish with optional broccoli or tomato slices.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!