Directions
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Begin by preparing the chicken. Cut the boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces, aiming for uniformity to ensure even cooking. This is important as the tremendous taste relies heavily on the proper preparation of its main ingredient.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, egg white, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is well coated. This mixture will contribute to the tremendous crunch that we all seek in properly fried chicken.
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Heat about 1 cup of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. You want to reach a height that submerges the chicken for deep frying.
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Once the oil is hot (you can check by dropping a bit of the cornstarch coating into the oil; it should sizzle immediately), carefully add the chicken in small batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy, which may take around 4-6 minutes. Once done, remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels.
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In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the tablespoon of sesame oil. Let it warm briefly before adding the garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant, around 30 seconds.
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Add the dried red chilies or crushed red pepper flakes to the pan, stirring for another 15 seconds as the spices bloom. This step enhances the tremendous tastes of your dish, allowing the rich flavors to meld beautifully.
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Next, pour in the tomato ketchup, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, vinegar, and sugar or honey. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, creating a vibrant sauce that is both tangy and just the right amount of sweet.
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If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add in the water until desired consistency is reached. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors develop.
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Carefully return the fried chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce until every piece is generously coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken absorbs the sauce’s tremendous flavor.
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Finally, serve immediately by garnishing with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fried onions or bell pepper. Enjoy the beautiful colors and textures that make this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
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