General Tso Sause

Common Sense About General Tso's Sauce in US Restaurants

1. It's Not Authentic Chinese Cuisine:

General Tso's sauce is an Americanized creation that bears little resemblance to any traditional Chinese dish. It was invented in the 1970s by Chinese-American chef Peng Chang-kuei in New York City.

2. It's Typically Sweet and Spicy:

General Tso's sauce is characterized by its sweet and spicy flavor profile. It is made with a base of soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and chili peppers. The sweetness comes from the sugar, while the spiciness comes from the chili peppers.

3. It's Often Used on Chicken:

General Tso's sauce is most commonly used on chicken. The chicken is typically fried or battered and then coated in the sauce. It can also be used on other meats, such as beef or pork.

4. It's a Popular Dish:

General Tso's chicken is one of the most popular dishes in Chinese restaurants in the United States. It is often ordered as a takeout or delivery item.

5. It's Not Always Healthy:

General Tso's sauce is high in calories, fat, and sodium. The fried or battered chicken adds even more calories and fat. If you are concerned about your health, you may want to limit your consumption of General Tso's chicken.

6. It's a Versatile Sauce:

General Tso's sauce can be used in a variety of dishes, not just on chicken. It can be used as a marinade, a dipping sauce, or a stir-fry sauce.

7. It's a Good Way to Introduce People to Chinese Food:

General Tso's chicken is a relatively mild dish that is often enjoyed by people who are new to Chinese food. It can be a good way to introduce people to the flavors of Chinese cuisine.