Originally posted on December 21, 2023 @ 1:13 am
General Tso chicken is a beloved Chinese dish known for its tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor. It’s a perfect balance of bold flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more. But what should you serve with this delicious main dish? To enhance your dining experience, we have compiled a list of amazing side dishes that pair perfectly with General Tso chicken. These sides will not only complement the flavors but also add variety and texture to your meal.
From colorful fried rice with veggies to crispy noodles, vibrant Asian chopped salad, Chinese lettuce wraps, steamed bao buns, and more, there’s something for everyone’s taste. Whether you prefer something light and refreshing or indulgent and crispy, these side dishes will take your General Tso chicken to the next level.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Choose side dishes that complement the tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors of General Tso chicken.
- Eggy fried rice with colorful veggies adds a satisfying texture and balanced flavor to your meal.
- Chinese crispy noodles provide a golden brown texture and a satisfying crunch.
- A vibrant Asian chopped salad adds freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the main dish.
- Chinese lettuce wraps are a fun and interactive way to customize your own bite-sized parcels of deliciousness.
Eggy Fried Rice with Colorful Veggies
Eggy fried rice with colorful veggies is a classic side dish that pairs well with General Tso chicken. The combination of fluffy rice, scrambled eggs, and colorful vegetables adds a satisfying texture and a balanced flavor to your meal. You can customize the fried rice by adding diced peppers, carrots, and onions for extra crunch and flavor. This side dish is easy to make and can be ready in just 15 minutes.
Recipe: Eggy Fried Rice with Colorful Veggies
Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for eggy fried rice with colorful veggies:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat some oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, peppers, and carrots, and sauté until they are tender.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together some eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the whisked eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs until they are cooked through.
- Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry everything together. Use a spatula to break up any clumps of rice.
- Season the fried rice with soy sauce or other seasonings of your choice. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro, and serve hot.
This eggy fried rice with colorful veggies is a versatile side dish that complements the flavors of General Tso chicken perfectly. It’s a great way to add some variety and a pop of color to your meal. Enjoy!
Chinese Crispy Noodles
Chinese crispy noodles are a crispy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with General Tso chicken. These deep-fried egg noodles have a golden brown texture and a satisfying crunch. They can be served as an appetizer or as a side dish alongside General Tso chicken. Chinese crispy noodles are also great for garnishing Asian salads and soups. You can easily make them at home using store-bought egg noodles or find them in the frozen section of your local supermarket.
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| – 8 ounces of egg noodles | 1. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. |
| – Vegetable oil for deep-frying | 2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep-fryer or large pot to 350°F. |
| – Salt | 3. Drain the cooked noodles and pat them dry. |
| – Optional toppings: sesame seeds, chopped green onions | 4. Fry the noodles in small batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. |
| 5. Remove the fried noodles from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. | |
| 6. Season the crispy noodles with salt and add your favorite toppings, such as sesame seeds or chopped green onions. |
Vibrant Asian Chopped Salad
A vibrant Asian chopped salad is a refreshing and colorful side dish that complements the rich flavors of General Tso chicken. Made with chopped carrots, cabbage, sugar peas, fresh coriander, and sesame seeds, this salad adds a burst of freshness to your meal. The zesty and punchy dressing enhances the vibrant flavors of the vegetables, creating a harmonious balance. It’s the perfect way to lighten up the richness of the main dish and add some crunch and texture to your plate.
The vibrant Asian chopped salad is not only visually appealing, but it also offers a variety of textures and flavors. The crispness of the carrots and cabbage, combined with the snap of the sugar peas, creates a delightful crunch. The fresh coriander adds a bright, herby note, while the nuttiness of the sesame seeds adds a final touch of complexity.
This salad is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to your taste. You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra color and crunch. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can drizzle some sriracha or chili oil over the top. The possibilities are endless!
Not only is this vibrant Asian chopped salad a delicious side dish, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Carrots are rich in vitamin A and fiber, while cabbage provides vitamin C and antioxidants. Sugar peas offer a good source of vitamin K, and fresh coriander is loaded with vitamins and minerals.
Tips for making a vibrant Asian chopped salad:
- Use fresh and crisp vegetables for the best texture.
- Don’t be afraid to play around with different herbs and dressings to suit your taste preferences.
- Consider adding protein to make it a complete meal. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great options.
- Make sure to toss the salad just before serving to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
| Ingredients | Dressing |
|---|---|
| 2 carrots, chopped | 2 tablespoons soy sauce |
| 1/4 small cabbage, thinly sliced | 1 tablespoon rice vinegar |
| 1 cup sugar peas, trimmed and halved | 1 teaspoon sesame oil |
| Handful of fresh coriander, roughly chopped | 1 teaspoon honey |
| 1 tablespoon sesame seeds | 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger |
To make the dressing, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and grated ginger in a small bowl until well combined.
In a large salad bowl, combine the carrots, cabbage, sugar peas, fresh coriander, and sesame seeds. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss until all the ingredients are well coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Chinese Lettuce Wraps
Chinese lettuce wraps are a fun and interactive side dish that pairs well with General Tso chicken. Crisp iceberg or little gem lettuce leaves are filled with the chicken and other toppings, such as chopped spring onions, grated carrot, sesame seeds, and fresh chillies. Lettuce wraps add a refreshing element to your meal and allow you to customize your own bite-sized parcels of deliciousness.
For a delightful crunch and a burst of flavors, try this recipe for Chinese lettuce wraps:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
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Steamed Bao Buns
Steamed bao buns, also known as “little packages,” are soft and fluffy buns that make a satisfying side dish to serve with General Tso chicken. These buns can be stuffed with various fillings, such as minced pork, chicken, beef, or your favorite vegetables. They can be easily made at home and are perfect for adding a touch of sweetness and texture to your meal.
One popular filling for steamed bao buns is char siu, a savory and slightly sweet barbecue pork. The tender and juicy pork pairs wonderfully with the soft and pillowy bun, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Variety of Fillings for Steamed Bao Buns
One of the great things about steamed bao buns is their versatility. You can get creative with the fillings and customize them to suit your taste preferences. Here are some popular fillings for steamed bao buns:
- Minced pork: Seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, minced pork makes a flavorful filling for steamed bao buns.
- Chicken: Tender and juicy chicken, seasoned with Chinese spices and sauces, is a delicious option for filling the buns.
- Beef: Marinated beef, thinly sliced and cooked to tender perfection, adds a savory twist to the steamed bao buns.
- Vegetables: For a vegetarian option, you can fill the buns with a combination of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and cabbage.
Whether you prefer the classic char siu filling or want to experiment with different flavors, steamed bao buns are a delightful addition to your General Tso chicken meal.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Soft and fluffy texture | Requires time to prepare the dough and let it rise |
| Can be stuffed with various fillings | May be challenging to achieve perfect steaming consistency |
| Adds a touch of sweetness and texture to the meal | Can be slightly time-consuming to assemble and steam each bun |
How to Make Steamed Bao Buns at Home
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add warm water and oil while stirring until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough to release the air, then divide it into equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into a flat circle, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Place a spoonful of your desired filling in the center of each dough circle. Gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together to seal the filling inside.
- Arrange the filled buns on squares of parchment paper and place them in a steamer basket. Steam the buns over high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffy and cooked through.
- Remove the steamed bao buns from the steamer and serve them warm alongside your General Tso chicken.
Enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors and textures as you bite into the soft and fluffy steamed bao buns paired with the bold and tangy General Tso chicken.
Crispy Crab Rangoon
Crispy crab rangoon, also known as crab puffs, are a popular side dish in American Chinese restaurants. These deep-fried wonton pockets are stuffed with a creamy mixture of cream cheese and crab meat. They are typically served with sweet chili dipping sauce on the side. These delicious and indulgent treats are a great addition to your General Tso chicken meal, adding a creamy and savory element.
Crab rangoon is a perfect balance of textures, with a crispy golden shell on the outside and a creamy, flavorful filling on the inside. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of crunchy and smooth. The combination of cream cheese and crab creates a rich and savory taste that pairs well with the tangy and slightly sweet flavors of General Tso chicken.
This image showcases a plate of crispy crab rangoon, perfectly fried to a golden brown. The vibrant colors and inviting presentation make it an irresistible choice for any Chinese food lover.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving some Chinese takeout, crispy crab rangoon is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your own taste buds. The combination of crispy texture, creamy filling, and delicious dipping sauce makes this side dish a standout addition to any meal.
Next time you order General Tso chicken, don’t forget to add a plate of crispy crab rangoon for an extra dose of flavor and indulgence.
Veggie Stuffed Spring Rolls
Veggie spring rolls are a delicious side dish that beautifully complements the flavors of General Tso chicken. These crispy and flavorful rolls are filled with a variety of vegetables, creating a delightful burst of freshness with every bite. Whether you choose to make them at home or purchase them from the grocery store, veggie spring rolls are a fantastic addition to your meal.
These delightful spring rolls are packed with colorful and nutritious vegetables such as thinly sliced carrots, cabbage, bell peppers, and bean sprouts. The combination of these veggies creates a satisfying crunch and adds a vibrant touch to your plate.
Making Your Own Veggie Spring Rolls
If you want to prepare your own veggie spring rolls, it’s a straightforward process that allows you to customize the filling according to your preferences. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
- Prepare the filling by sautéing thinly sliced carrots, cabbage, bell peppers, bean sprouts, and any other vegetables of your choice in a pan with a bit of oil. Add soy sauce and a hint of your favorite Asian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Soak the spring roll wrappers in warm water until they become pliable.
- Place a spoonful of the vegetable filling onto each wrapper and roll it up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
- Seal the rolls by brushing a bit of water on the wrapper’s edges.
- Deep fry the spring rolls until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Serve the veggie spring rolls alongside your delicious General Tso chicken for a satisfying crunch and an exciting mix of flavors.
Store-Bought Veggie Spring Rolls
If you prefer the convenience of store-bought spring rolls, many grocery stores offer a variety of veggie spring rolls that you can simply heat and enjoy. Look for ones with a crispy texture and a filling that includes a medley of colorful vegetables.
| Pros of Making Your Own Veggie Spring Rolls | Pros of Store-Bought Veggie Spring Rolls |
|---|---|
| You have full control over the ingredients and can adjust the flavor to your preference. | Convenient and saves time in the kitchen. |
| You can experiment with different vegetable combinations and seasonings. | Consistent taste and quality. |
| Fun and rewarding to make from scratch. | Readily available for those seeking a quick and easy option. |
No matter which option you choose, veggie spring rolls are an excellent choice as a side dish for General Tso chicken, adding a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness to your meal.
Stir-Fried Asian Mushrooms
Stir-fried Asian mushrooms are a low-fat and flavorful side dish that pairs well with General Tso chicken. You can use any type of mushroom you prefer, but button mushrooms work well for their earthy taste. This dish is quick and easy to make, and it adds a savory and umami flavor to your meal. Leftovers can be enjoyed as part of a Buddha-style bowl or added to fried rice.
Stir-fried mushrooms are a versatile and nutritious addition to your meal. Not only do they bring a unique texture and taste, but they also provide various health benefits. Mushrooms are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. They are low in fat and calories, making them a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
To make stir-fried Asian mushrooms, start by heating oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and stir-fry them for about 4-5 minutes until they become golden brown and tender. You can enhance the flavor by adding garlic, ginger, soy sauce, or other seasonings of your choice. Serve the stir-fried mushrooms hot alongside General Tso chicken for a delightful combination of flavors.
Not only are stir-fried mushrooms a delicious side dish, but they also offer a variety of serving options. You can enjoy them over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a filling and satisfying meal. They also make a great addition to stir-fries, soups, and stews, adding depth of flavor and a hearty element to the dish.
Benefits of Stir-Fried Mushrooms:
- Low in fat and calories
- Rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Added texture and umami flavor to your meal
- Versatile and can be used in various recipes
- Pairs well with General Tso chicken and other Asian dishes
Recipe: Stir-Fried Asian Mushrooms
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 pound of mushrooms (button, shiitake, or your preferred type) | 1. Clean and slice the mushrooms. |
| 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil | 2. Heat the oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat. |
| Garlic and ginger (optional) | 3. Add garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for 1 minute. |
| 2 tablespoons of soy sauce | 4. Add soy sauce and stir-fry the mushrooms for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and tender. |
| Salt and pepper (to taste) | 5. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. |
| Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish) | 6. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions. |
| 7. Serve hot and enjoy! |
Crunchy Prawn Toast
Crunchy prawn toast is a delightful side dish that originated in Hong Kong and has gained popularity in American Chinese restaurants. These bite-sized triangles of bread are generously spread with a paste made from minced prawns, creating a luscious and flavorful filling. To add a delightful crunch, these prawn toasts are coated in sesame seeds and deep-fried until they turn a golden brown, resulting in a satisfyingly crispy texture.
When served alongside General Tso chicken, prawn toast adds a delicious seafood element that complements the bold flavors of the main dish. The prawn toast’s crispy exterior acts as a perfect contrast to the tender chicken, adding an enjoyable textural experience to every bite.
To complete the taste sensation, prawn toast is typically served with a side of sweet chili dipping sauce. This zesty and slightly spicy sauce perfectly balances the richness of the prawn toast and brings out the flavors in both the bread and the prawns.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to elevate your General Tso chicken meal, crunchy prawn toast is a fantastic choice. Its combination of textures, flavors, and presentation will surely impress your taste buds.
Conclusion
When it comes to serving General Tso chicken, choosing the right side dishes is key to complementing the dish’s tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors. Fortunately, there are a variety of options available that will elevate your meal and satisfy your taste buds.
For a classic pairing, try eggy fried rice with colorful veggies. The combination of fluffy rice, scrambled eggs, and vibrant vegetables adds a balanced texture and flavor to your plate. You can also opt for Chinese crispy noodles, which provide a satisfying crunch and a deep-fried goodness.
If you’re looking to add some freshness to your meal, a vibrant Asian chopped salad or Chinese lettuce wraps are great options. These refreshing dishes incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables and zesty dressings that perfectly balance the richness of General Tso chicken.
Alternatively, if you’re craving something indulgent, consider serving crispy crab rangoon or veggie-stuffed spring rolls alongside your chicken. These deep-fried treats offer a creamy and satisfying element that pairs well with the bold flavors of General Tso chicken.
Whether you prefer light and refreshing options or indulgent side dishes, these suggestions provide a range of flavors and textures that will enhance your General Tso chicken dining experience. Whatever your preference, these side dishes are sure to impress and leave you satisfied.
FAQ
What are some delicious side dishes to serve with General Tso chicken?
Some delicious side dishes to serve with General Tso chicken include eggy fried rice with colorful veggies, Chinese crispy noodles, vibrant Asian chopped salad, Chinese lettuce wraps, steamed bao buns, crispy crab rangoon, veggie stuffed spring rolls, stir-fried Asian mushrooms, and crunchy prawn toast.
How do I make eggy fried rice with colorful veggies?
To make eggy fried rice with colorful veggies, combine cooked rice with scrambled eggs and sautéed diced peppers, carrots, and onions. Stir-fry everything together until well combined and heated through. Serve as a side dish with General Tso chicken.
Can I find Chinese crispy noodles in the grocery store?
Yes, you can find Chinese crispy noodles in the frozen section of your local supermarket. Alternatively, you can make them at home using store-bought egg noodles.
What ingredients are in a vibrant Asian chopped salad?
A vibrant Asian chopped salad typically includes chopped carrots, cabbage, sugar peas, fresh coriander, sesame seeds, and a zesty dressing.
How do I make Chinese lettuce wraps?
To make Chinese lettuce wraps, take crisp iceberg or little gem lettuce leaves and fill them with General Tso chicken, chopped spring onions, grated carrot, sesame seeds, and fresh chilies. Enjoy customizing your own bite-sized parcels of deliciousness.
What are steamed bao buns?
Steamed bao buns, also known as “little packages,” are soft and fluffy buns that can be stuffed with various fillings such as minced pork, chicken, beef, or vegetables. They add a touch of sweetness and texture to your meal when served as a side dish with General Tso chicken.
How do I make crispy crab rangoon?
To make crispy crab rangoon, spread minced crab meat and cream cheese mixture onto wonton wrappers, fold them into triangles, and deep fry until golden brown and crispy. Serve with a sweet chili dipping sauce on the side.
Can I make veggie stuffed spring rolls at home?
Yes, you can easily make veggie stuffed spring rolls at home. Fill spring roll wrappers with a variety of vegetables, roll them up, and either deep fry or bake them until crispy. They are a perfect side dish for General Tso chicken.
What mushrooms can I use for stir-fried Asian mushrooms?
You can use any type of mushroom you prefer for stir-fried Asian mushrooms, but button mushrooms work well for their earthy taste. You can quickly stir-fry them to add a savory and umami flavor to your meal.
How do I make crunchy prawn toast?
To make crunchy prawn toast, spread a mixture of minced prawns onto bread triangles, coat them in sesame seeds, and deep fry until golden brown and crispy. Serve with a sweet chili dipping sauce on the side.
What are the best sides for General Tso chicken?
The best sides for General Tso chicken are eggy fried rice with colorful veggies, Chinese crispy noodles, vibrant Asian chopped salad, Chinese lettuce wraps, steamed bao buns, crispy crab rangoon, veggie stuffed spring rolls, stir-fried Asian mushrooms, and crunchy prawn toast. These dishes complement the tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor of General Tso chicken.
Source Links
- https://slimmingviolet.com/what-to-serve-with-general-tso-chicken/
- https://juliescafebakery.com/best-sides-to-serve-with-general-tso-chicken/
- https://omnivorescookbook.com/20-asian-side-dishes
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