Pollo General Tso

The delicious Pollo General Tso! A staple on the menus of many American-Chinese restaurants, especially in the United States. As a food enthusiast, I'm excited to dive into the world of this popular dish and break it down for you.

What is General Tso's Chicken?

General Tso's Chicken, also known as Pollo General Tso in Spanish, is a variation of Chinese-American cuisine that originated in the 1950s. The dish is named after General Zuo Zongtang (also spelled Tso), a Qing dynasty hero and military strategist. The recipe was allegedly created by Chef Peng Chang-kuei, a renowned Chinese chef, who immigrated to Taiwan after the Communist takeover of China.

What makes it special?

Pollo General Tso is a sweet and spicy stir-fry dish made with:

1. Chicken: Breast or thigh meat, typically cut into bite-sized pieces and marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices.

2. Breading: The chicken pieces are usually coated with a cornstarch-based batter, which helps create a crispy exterior.

3. Sauce: A sweet and spicy sauce made with a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and various spices, including chili peppers, garlic, and ginger. The sauce is what sets Pollo General Tso apart from other Chinese dishes.

4. Stir-frying: The chicken pieces are quickly stir-fried in a wok or large skillet with the sauce, which caramelizes the sugar and creates a sticky, savory glaze.

Where to find it in the USA

Pollo General Tso is a staple in many Chinese-American restaurants across the United States. You can find it on the menus of popular chains like P.F. Chang's, Panda Express, and Hunan Garden. Even independent restaurants and family-owned eateries often serve their own versions of this beloved dish.

Tips for trying Pollo General Tso

1. Ask for a saucy portion: Request that your server not hold back on the sauce, as some restaurants may skimp on the amount of sauce.

2. Add veggies: Many restaurants offer a "veggie-packed" option, which adds extra veggies like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers.

3. Go for the spicy version: If you like a little heat, ask for the "spicy" or "hot" version, which adds more chili peppers or hot sauce to the sauce.

Now that you know more about Pollo General Tso, go ahead and indulge in this tasty treat at your next meal out!