The Real General Tso And How He Became The Namesake For Takeout Chicken

General Tso's chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine, but its connection to the actual historical figure, General Tso Tsung-t'ang, is tenuous at best. Tso Tsung-t'ang was a 19th-century Chinese military leader from the Hunan Province, known for his successful campaigns during the Qing Dynasty. He played a significant role in quelling the Taiping Rebellion and was recognized for his strategic prowess and loyalty to the Chinese empire. The dish named after him, however, does not have roots in his life or era. Instead, it was created in the 20th century, likely by Chinese chefs in Taiwan who were inspired by Hunanese flavors. Chef Peng Chang-kuei is often credited with popularizing the dish in the United States during the 1970s. He introduced it in his restaurant in New York City, where it gained popularity among American diners. The dish, characterized by its sweet and spicy sauce, crispy fried chicken, and subtle hints of ginger and garlic, became a staple in Chinese takeout menus across the country. While General Tso himself may never have tasted this dish, his name has become synonymous with a beloved and enduring culinary creation.