Homemade General Tso’s Chicken

Directions

1. Prep the chicken: In a large bowl bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, egg white, soy sauce, and sesame oil until a thick slurry forms (will look gummy but smooth). Add the chicken pieces and stir until all are evenly coated. Cover lightly with plastic wrap, and set aside at room temperature for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Begin the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, and chile-garlic sauce until smooth; set aside. Add the tablespoon of oil to a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over high heat. Stir the garlic and ginger into the oil and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour the sauce mixture into the pan, stirring, until the sauce becomes thick and shiny. Once the sauce thickens, lower heat and keep the saucepan over a low burner partially covered to stay warm.
4. To fry the chicken: Heat 1/2-inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed, high-sided frying pan or skillet over high heat.
5. When the oil is shimmering, add one piece of chicken at a time (do not crowd the pan). Cook chicken for 4 minutes on each side, or until deep golden brown and crisp on both sides. Drain on a paper towel lined plate and repeat the process with remaining chicken.
6. Transfer fried chicken into the prepared sauce and toss to coat. Increase the heat to medium, stir and cook just until hot all the way through.
7. Sprinkle with sliced scallions and cashews if desired and serve immediately over rice with steamed broccoli.