General Tso Shrimp

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that packs a punch of flavor while being quick and easy to whip up, look no further than General Tso Shrimp. This delightful twist on the classic General Tso’s chicken features succulent shrimp tossed in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that’ll have you coming back for seconds. With a few simple ingredients and a handful of steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

The Upside of General Tso Shrimp

General Tso Shrimp is not just a feast for the taste buds; it also comes with a variety of upsides. First, shrimp cooks quickly, making this dish perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Second, shrimp is a lean protein that doesn’t weigh you down, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt. Plus, the combination of flavors from the sauce, including the vibrant notes of garlic and ginger, elevates the dish, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Lastly, this recipe is incredibly versatile — serve it over rice, noodles, or even toss it into a stir-fry for a complete meal.

Ingredient Rundown

This recipe calls for a handful of ingredients that are easy to find and deliciously effective. Here’s what you need:

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock or vegetable broth – This forms the base of your sauce, providing depth and flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce – Adds umami and saltiness to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Introduces a tangy note that balances the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon Hoisin sauce – A sweet and savory sauce that deepens the flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Enhances the sweetness and caramelization.
• 2 teaspoons Sriracha – Offers a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your liking.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that aromatic kick.
• 1 inch fresh ginger root, peeled and grated – Brightens the dish with its zesty flavor.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch – Used for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• 1 tablespoon un-toasted sesame oil or canola oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps to cook the shrimp.
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed – The star of the show!

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Wok or large skillet – Ideal for stir-frying the shrimp and sauce together.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring and flipping the shrimp.
• Knife and cutting board – To mince garlic and grate ginger.
• Small bowl – For mixing the sauce ingredients.

General Tso Shrimp, Made Easy

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your very own General Tso Shrimp.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium chicken stock (or vegetable broth), low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, Hoisin sauce, brown sugar, Sriracha, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set this mixture aside; we’ll use it shortly.

Step 2: Mix the Cornstarch

In another small bowl, combine the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. This will help thicken your sauce later on.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat the un-toasted sesame oil (or canola oil) in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, pour in the sauce mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional minute, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, tossing them in the sauce until evenly coated. Cook for an additional minute to heat the shrimp through. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal, and enjoy your homemade General Tso Shrimp!

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

If you’re looking to adapt this dish to meet dietary restrictions, here are some easy swaps:

• Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.
• Make sure your Hoisin sauce is gluten-free (many brands are, but always check the label).
• Opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken stock if you want a vegetarian version.

Missteps & Fixes

Even seasoned chefs can run into problems while cooking. Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:

• Overcooked shrimp: If your shrimp turn out rubbery, reduce the cooking time next time. Shrimp only need a few minutes to cook.
• Too salty: If the dish ends up too salty, add a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of sugar to balance the flavors.
• Sauce too thin: If your sauce doesn’t thicken, mix an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce until it reaches the desired consistency.

Save It for Later

General Tso Shrimp is perfect for meal prep! Here are some tips to store it:

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

General Tso Shrimp Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can run them under cold water for a quick thawing process.

What can I serve with General Tso Shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or even over noodles. For a healthier option, serve it alongside sautéed vegetables.

Can I make this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp in advance. Just combine them right before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of Sriracha or omit it altogether. You can always add more later if you prefer a spicier kick!

Healthy-ish Favorites

If you enjoyed this General Tso Shrimp recipe, here are some other healthy-ish favorites you might love:

• Spicy Garlic Chili Shrimp Pasta – A fiery, flavorful pasta dish that’s sure to impress.
• Takis Shrimp Tacos With Avocado Crema – Crispy shrimp tacos topped with creamy avocado for a perfect bite.
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta – A rich and creamy pasta that brings the heat!

Ready to Cook?

Now that you’ve got the scoop on creating your very own General Tso Shrimp, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! With its vibrant flavors and quick preparation, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Enjoy the process and savor the delightful result of your hard work. Happy cooking!