General Tao Chicken

Recipe View 1. Embark on your culinary journey by gathering all the necessary ingredients, ensuring each component is within reach and ready to be transformed. (Prep time: ~5 minutes)

Recipe View 2. In a mixing bowl, gently coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch, ensuring each morsel is lightly dusted. Set aside, allowing the cornstarch to adhere to the chicken, creating a delicate crust. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and pepper until well combined. Gradually stir in the flour and baking powder until a smooth batter forms, free of any large lumps. Immerse the chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring each piece is evenly coated in the velvety mixture. (Prep time: ~10 minutes)

Recipe View 3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat, allowing the oil to reach a shimmering intensity. Carefully introduce the coated chicken into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken until it achieves a golden-brown perfection, with each piece cooked through and no longer pink on the inside, approximately 12 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a separate dish and keep warm, preserving its crispy texture and delectable flavor. (Cook time: ~12 minutes)

Recipe View 4. Reduce the heat to medium-high, paving the way for the aromatic symphony. Introduce the chopped green onion, grated ginger, and sesame oil to the skillet, allowing their fragrances to intertwine and fill your kitchen. Cook and stir until the onion softens and the ginger begins to brown, approximately 1 minute, releasing their essential oils and adding depth to the sauce. Pour in the water, sugar, and vinegar, and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld and harmonize. (Cook time: ~3 minutes)

Recipe View 5. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in soy sauce, creating a smooth slurry. Gently stir this mixture into the simmering vinegar mixture, followed by the oyster sauce and ketchup, infusing the sauce with layers of complexity. Cook until the sauce thickens, transforming into a glossy, luscious glaze, free of any cloudiness. Introduce the cooked chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat each piece in the flavorful elixir. Simmer until the chicken is heated through, allowing the sauce to penetrate every crevice, creating a harmonious marriage of flavors and textures. (Cook time: ~5 minutes)