General Tso Pork is a delicious twist on the classic General Tso’s Chicken that brings bold flavors and tender pork together in one irresistible dish. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes that make it a favorite for anyone craving Chinese-American comfort food.
We love how easy it is to prepare this dish at home without sacrificing any of the rich, savory flavors you’d expect from your favorite takeout. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, General Tso Pork delivers satisfying taste and texture every time.
Get ready to enjoy crispy pork bites coated in a mouthwatering sauce that’s packed with garlic, ginger, and a hint of heat. Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in our recipe collection.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect General Tso Pork, we need to gather a few essential ingredients. These components combine to deliver that signature crispy texture, bold flavors, and irresistible richness. Below, we break down everything required for the pork, sauce, and coating to simplify your cooking experience.
For the Pork
We start with fresh pork and the right seasonings to create tender juicy bites that will absorb the sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
For the Sauce
The sauce balances sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. It brings the dish to life with its complex yet harmonious flavor profile.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For the Coating
Our crisp pork bites rely on this light, crunchy coating that locks in moisture and ensures a satisfying texture.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1/2 cup | For base coating |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup | Adds extra crispiness |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | Helps achieve a light texture |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
| Ground white pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Mild heat |
| Egg | 1 large | Binds the coating |
This well-structured list will equip us to create the authentic and mouthwatering General Tso Pork that delights with every bite.
Equipment Needed
To prepare General Tso Pork perfectly, having the right equipment is essential for achieving that ideal crispy texture and rich sauce coating. Here is the list of must-have tools to ensure our cooking process is smooth and efficient:
- Wok or Large Skillet:
We use a wok or a large heavy-bottomed skillet for stir-frying the pork. Its wide surface area allows for even cooking and quick frying for that signature crispy bite.
- Mixing Bowls (2-3):
Essential for marinating the pork, mixing the sauce, and preparing the coating batter separately.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons:
Accurate measurements of soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and spices guarantee a balanced flavor.
- Whisk:
Needed to combine the sauce ingredients thoroughly and mix the batter evenly, preventing lumps.
- Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer:
Helps us remove the fried pork pieces from hot oil leaving excess oil behind for crispiness.
- Deep Frying Pan or Pot:
For deep frying, a sturdy deep pan or pot is required to hold enough oil for submerging the pork pieces.
- Cooking Thermometer (optional but recommended):
To monitor the oil temperature, ideally kept at 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying without greasiness.
- Paper Towels:
For draining the fried pork and reducing excess oil before tossing with the sauce.
- Wooden Spoon or Heatproof Spatula:
For stirring the sauce and coating the pork evenly without scratching cookware.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wok or Large Skillet | Stir-frying pork and sauce | Wide surface for even cooking |
| Mixing Bowls | Marinating, batter, and sauce preparation | Multiple bowls for organization |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement | Essential for flavor balance |
| Whisk | Blending batter and sauce components | Prevents lumps |
| Slotted Spoon/Spider | Removing fried pork from oil | Drains excess oil |
| Deep Frying Pan or Pot | Frying pork bites | Holds sufficient oil volume |
| Cooking Thermometer | Maintaining oil temperature | Keeps frying temperature steady |
| Paper Towels | Draining excess oil from fried pork | Ensures crispiness |
| Wooden Spoon or Spatula | Stirring sauce and coating pork | Heatproof to avoid damage |
With this equipment ready, we set the stage for cooking crispy and flavorful General Tso Pork every time. Keeping tools organized saves prep time and helps maintain kitchen safety while delivering that restaurant-quality dish at home.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, proper prep work is essential to ensure our General Tso Pork turns out perfectly crispy and flavorful. Let’s break down the key preparation steps for the pork, sauce, and coating.
Preparing the Pork
We begin by preparing the pork to maximize its tenderness and flavor absorption.
- Choose fresh pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into bite-sized 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Place the pork cubes in a mixing bowl.
- Add 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper.
- Toss the pork thoroughly to coat the pieces evenly.
- Cover the bowl and let the pork marinate in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to tenderize and deepen flavor.
Making the Sauce
Creating the signature General Tso sauce requires precise balancing of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes.
- In a medium bowl, combine the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Hoisin sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Chili garlic sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Chicken broth | ¼ cup |
- Stir the mixture well until the brown sugar fully dissolves.
- In a small separate bowl, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water until smooth.
- Keep both sauce mixture and slurry ready for quick use during cooking.
Getting the Coating Ready
A light and crispy coating is crucial for the General Tso Pork’s irresistible texture.
- In a large shallow bowl, whisk together:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup |
| Cornstarch | ½ cup |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground white pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Egg | 1 large |
- Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- This coating will help us achieve the perfect crispy and light exterior on the pork pieces.
With these prep steps completed, we are well-positioned to bring all components together and serve a mouthwatering General Tso Pork that delivers bold flavors and exceptional texture.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s bring together all our prepared ingredients and equipment to create the perfect General Tso Pork. Follow these steps carefully to achieve crispy pork pieces coated in a rich, flavorful sauce.
Frying the Pork
- Heat the oil: Fill a deep frying pan or pot with at least 2 inches of vegetable oil. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer for accuracy.
- Prepare for frying: While the oil heats, ensure your pork cubes are evenly coated with the prepared coating mixture.
- Fry in batches: Carefully place pork cubes into the hot oil using a slotted spoon or spider strainer. Avoid overcrowding to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
- Cooking time: Fry each batch for 4 to 6 minutes until the pork turns golden brown and crispy.
- Drain excess oil: Remove pork with the slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain. Repeat for all batches.
- Keep warm: To keep pork warm and crispy, place fried pieces on a wire rack in a warm oven set to 200°F (95°C) while frying remaining batches.
Preparing the Sauce on Stove
- Heat the wok or skillet: Place the wok or large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Sauté aromatics: Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add sauce base: Pour in the sauce mixture made of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and chicken broth.
- Simmer: Bring sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 2 minutes allowing flavors to meld.
- Thicken sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry gradually while stirring constantly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Combining Pork and Sauce
- Toss pork in sauce: Add the crispy fried pork cubes into the thickened sauce in the wok.
- Coat evenly: Gently toss the pork and sauce together using tongs or a wooden spoon until every piece is well coated.
- Final heat: Cook the pork in sauce for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to fully integrate and serve immediately.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil for frying | 350°F (175°C) | 4-6 minutes per batch | Maintain temperature |
| Sauté garlic & ginger | Medium heat | 30 seconds | Until fragrant |
| Simmer sauce | Medium heat | 2 minutes | Flavors combine |
| Thicken sauce | Medium heat | 1-2 minutes | Stir constantly |
| Final coat with pork | Medium heat | 1-2 minutes | Ensure pork is fully coated |
Following these cooking steps will ensure our General Tso Pork turns out crispy on the outside with a bold, savory-sweet glaze that perfectly complements tender pork.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our General Tso Pork experience, pairing it with thoughtfully chosen garnishes and sides enhances its bold flavors and crispy texture perfectly. Let’s explore how to serve this dish for maximum enjoyment.
Garnishes and Accompaniments
We recommend finishing our General Tso Pork with garnishes that add freshness, crunch, and a pop of color. These elements complement the rich, sweet-spicy sauce and crispy pork bites impeccably.
- Sliced Green Onions: Sprinkle thinly sliced green onions over the pork for a sharp, fresh contrast.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: Add a nutty aroma and subtle crunch with a generous sprinkle.
- Fresh Cilantro Leaves: For a herbaceous lift and vibrant green garnish.
- Thinly Sliced Red Chili: For those who love extra heat and color.
Ideal Side Dishes
Balancing the richness of General Tso Pork with simple, clean sides is key. Consider these classic pairings:
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Jasmine Rice | Fragrant and fluffy, it soaks up the sauce beautifully. | Neutral base enhances sauce flavors. |
| Stir-Fried Vegetables | Mixed bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli lightly tossed in garlic. | Adds crunch and freshness. |
| Asian Slaw | Crisp cabbage, carrots, and green onions with a tangy dressing. | Refreshing, contrasts richness. |
| Fried Rice | Egg and vegetable fried rice for a hearty accompaniment. | Complements the savory pork. |
Beverage Pairings
For beverage pairing, we opt for drinks that cut through the richness or enhance the overall flavor profile:
- Jasmine Green Tea: Light and floral to cleanse the palate.
- Chilled Lager or Pilsner: Crisp and refreshing with a slight bitterness.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Simple and effervescent to balance intensity.
By combining these garnishes and sides with our General Tso Pork, we create a memorable meal that satisfies every craving—from crunch to spice to the perfect finishing touch.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our General Tso Pork fresh and flavorful, proper storage and make-ahead strategies are essential. Follow these tips for enjoying crispy pork bites with that signature sauce anytime.
How to Store General Tso Pork
- Cool completely before storing to prevent condensation making the coating soggy.
- Transfer pork and sauce into airtight containers. We recommend storing sauce separately if possible, to maintain crispiness.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep temperature at or below 40°F (4°C).
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 to 4 days | Store pork and sauce separately if possible |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags |
Freezing for Longer Storage
- Portion cooled pork and sauce into freezer-safe containers.
- Label containers with date to track freshness.
- Thaw in refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips for Best Texture
- For crispiness, reheat pork pieces separately in a hot skillet or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Warm sauce gently on stovetop or microwave.
- Combine pork and sauce just before serving to retain that crispy exterior with the bold, flavorful glaze.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Marinate pork up to 24 hours in advance in the refrigerator for enhanced tenderness and flavor.
- Prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate.
- Mix the coating dry ingredients and beat the egg in separate bowls to speed up the cooking process.
“Plan ahead to enjoy our General Tso Pork without compromise on texture and flavor, so every meal feels freshly cooked.”
By following these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips, we ensure every serving of our General Tso Pork stays vibrant, crispy, and crave-worthy.
Conclusion
General Tso Pork is a fantastic way to enjoy bold flavors with tender, crispy pork right at home. With the right ingredients, equipment, and techniques, we can easily recreate this restaurant favorite without sacrificing taste or texture.
By paying attention to preparation and cooking details, every bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. Adding thoughtful garnishes and sides elevates the meal, making it suitable for any occasion.
Plus, smart storage and make-ahead tips help keep this dish fresh and delicious for days. This recipe is sure to become a staple in our kitchen, impressing family and friends alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is General Tso Pork?
General Tso Pork is a variation of the classic General Tso’s Chicken, using tender pork instead of chicken, combined with a sweet, tangy, and spicy sauce for a flavorful twist.
What ingredients do I need for General Tso Pork?
You’ll need pork shoulder or loin, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, spices for the pork; soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, chicken broth for the sauce; and all-purpose flour, baking powder, egg, and seasonings for the coating.
What equipment is essential for making General Tso Pork?
Key tools include a wok or large skillet, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, whisk, deep frying pan or pot, slotted spoon or spider strainer, cooking thermometer, and paper towels.
How do I prepare the pork for General Tso Pork?
Cut pork into bite-sized cubes, then marinate with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper for 20 to 30 minutes to tenderize and flavor the meat.
What is the best way to fry the pork?
Heat oil to 350°F and fry pork cubes in batches for 4 to 6 minutes until golden brown, then remove and drain excess oil on paper towels.
How do I make the sauce for General Tso Pork?
Sauté garlic and ginger, add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and chicken broth, then thicken with a cornstarch slurry.
How should I combine the pork and sauce?
Toss the crispy fried pork in the prepared sauce over medium heat until evenly coated and heated through for a perfect glaze.
What side dishes go well with General Tso Pork?
Steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, Asian slaw, and fried rice complement the dish well by balancing its richness.
Can I make General Tso Pork ahead of time?
Yes, marinate pork up to 24 hours in advance and prepare the sauce ahead to enhance flavor and save cooking time.
How do I store leftover General Tso Pork?
Cool completely, store pork and sauce separately in airtight containers, refrigerate up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to a month.
What is the best way to reheat General Tso Pork?
Reheat pork separately in a hot skillet or oven to restore crispiness and warm the sauce gently before combining.
What garnishes enhance General Tso Pork?
Try garnishing with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, or thinly sliced red chili for added flavor and texture.