How do you pronounce General Tso’s Chicken?
The correct pronunciation of General Tso’s Chicken is “Ts-ow” or “Sow.” The “Ts” should be said like the letter “T” followed by a “s” sound, while the “ow” rhymes with “how.” So instead of saying “so,” you would pronounce it as “sow.” Here, “Tso” is not pronounced as “Zo” or “T-zo.”
Who is General Tso?
General Tso was a real person, but his connection to the dish is somewhat vague. General Tso Tsung-tang (or Zuo Zongtang) was an influential military leader from China’s Qing dynasty in the mid-19th century. However, his connection to the dish that bears his name is still unclear. It is believed that the dish was actually created by Chinese immigrants who settled in the United States and wanted to pay homage to their homeland.
Is General Tso’s Chicken an authentic Chinese dish?
General Tso’s Chicken is not considered an authentic Chinese dish. In fact, you would be hard-pressed to find it on menus in China. The dish was created in the United States, specifically in the early 1970s, by Chinese immigrant chef Peng Chang-kuei. He modified a traditional Hunanese chicken dish called “chicken in tribute to the general,” and it eventually gained immense popularity.
How is General Tso’s Chicken made?
General Tso’s Chicken is made by lightly coating chunks of chicken in a batter consisting of cornstarch, flour, and eggs. The chicken is then deep-fried until it is golden and crispy. The sauce for the dish is made with ingredients such as soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, ginger, and spices. The fried chicken is then tossed in the sauce until each piece is coated, resulting in a sweet and tangy flavor.
Are there any variations of General Tso’s Chicken?
Yes, there are several variations of General Tso’s Chicken. Some versions use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast, as thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Others add vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots to the dish to make it a more well-rounded meal. Additionally, some chefs may adjust the spice level of the sauce to suit individual preferences.
In conclusion, General Tso’s Chicken is a delicious Chinese-American dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. Remember to pronounce it as “Ts-ow” or “Sow” rather than “T-zo.” Although it may not be an authentic Chinese dish, it has become a beloved staple in American Chinese cuisine. So, the next time you order General Tso’s Chicken, impress your friends and pronounce it correctly!