Savory Spicy General Tso's Sauce
Elevate your culinary skills with this authentic and savory General Tso's Sauce recipe. Perfectly balanced with a blend of soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, and a kick of chili paste, this sauce adds an irresistible touch to your favorite dishes. Whether you're tossing it with crispy chicken, vegetables, or even trying it as a stir-fry sauce, this versatile recipe brings the beloved flavors of a classic Chinese favorite right into your kitchen. This homemade sauce is not only easy to prepare, but it also allows you to customize the heat level to your liking. Share this delightful sauce with family and friends and watch it become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
soy sauce
3 tablespoons (none)
sugar
3 tablespoons (none)
rice wine
2 tablespoons (none)
rice wine vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons (none)
chili paste
1 tablespoon (none)
cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, rice wine vinegar, chili paste, and cornstarch.
2
Whisk the mixture thoroughly until the sugar and cornstarch are completely dissolved.
3
Transfer the mixture into a sauté pan and place it over medium heat.
4
Cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes or until thickened to your desired consistency.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Spicy General Tso's Sauce?
It is a balanced blend of soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, and chili paste used to create a classic Chinese flavor profile.
What are the main ingredients in this sauce?
The core ingredients are soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, rice wine vinegar, chili paste, and cornstarch.
How long does it take to cook the sauce?
The sauce takes approximately 5 to 7 minutes to cook and thicken over medium heat.
Can I adjust the spiciness of this recipe?
Yes, the recipe is customizable, allowing you to increase or decrease the chili paste to suit your heat preference.
What dishes pair well with General Tso's sauce?
This sauce is perfect for crispy chicken, assorted vegetables, and various stir-fry dishes.
How do I prepare the sauce mixture?
Combine soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, vinegar, chili paste, and cornstarch in a bowl and whisk until dissolved.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in the recipe?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent to give the sauce its signature glossy and thick consistency.
Does this sauce require many ingredients?
No, this recipe is simple and only requires 6 basic pantry staples.
Is this General Tso's sauce authentic?
Yes, it uses traditional ingredients like rice wine and rice wine vinegar to replicate beloved Chinese flavors.
What heat setting should I use?
The sauce should be cooked in a sauté pan over medium heat.
How much soy sauce is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of soy sauce.
How much sugar is in the sauce?
There are 3 tablespoons of sugar to provide a balanced sweetness.
Is rice wine necessary for this recipe?
Yes, 2 tablespoons of rice wine add depth and authenticity to the sauce's flavor.
What type of vinegar is recommended?
The recipe specifically uses 1 1/2 tablespoons of rice wine vinegar.
Can I use this as a dipping sauce?
While primarily a cooking sauce, its savory and spicy profile makes it a delicious dip as well.
Is the sauce easy to make?
Yes, it involves simple mixing and a few minutes of cooking, making it accessible for any skill level.
How do I ensure there are no lumps?
Whisk the cornstarch thoroughly into the cold liquid ingredients before applying heat.
Is this sauce vegetarian?
Yes, based on the ingredients listed, this sauce is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the quantities if you are preparing a larger meal for family or friends.
What is the texture of the finished sauce?
The finished sauce should be thickened and smooth, coating the back of a spoon.
Can I use this sauce for meal prep?
Absolutely, it is a versatile staple that can elevate prepared chicken or vegetables throughout the week.
How much chili paste should I use?
The recipe recommends 1 tablespoon of chili paste for a balanced kick.
Does this sauce contain fiber?
Based on the specific ingredients used, this sauce does not contain a significant amount of fiber.
Is there any preparation needed for the ingredients?
No, all ingredients are used as-is and require no special prep like chopping or mincing.
How much cornstarch is needed?
You will need 1 1/2 teaspoons of cornstarch for the thickening process.
Can I use this as a stir-fry sauce?
Yes, it is specifically designed to work perfectly as a stir-fry base for proteins and greens.
What makes the sauce savory?
The combination of soy sauce and rice wine provides the deep savory notes.
Is this sauce healthy?
This homemade version allows you to control ingredients and customize the flavor without store-bought additives.
Why should I stir the sauce while cooking?
Stirring occasionally ensures the sauce thickens evenly and prevents it from sticking to the pan.
What is the primary flavor profile?
The sauce is characterized by a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy elements.