General Tso’s Glazed Shrimp over Broccoli

General Tso’s most famous dish is made with chicken. The name General Tso is said to honor the Qing dynasty statesman and military leader, Zou Zongtang, also known as Tos Tsung-t’ang. There is no actual record connecting him to a dish that was popular in Hunan, Zou’s home province. While the chicken variety of this dish has been associated with Tos Tsung-t’ang, there are other stories. Like most food folklore, we might never know. One thing is certain, this dish is equally amazing with shrimp as we all know there’s more to life than just Chinese Chicken.

General Tso’s Glazed Shrimp over Broccoli
Glazing Sauce
1 clove garlic, grated
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1/3 cup ketchup
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
Red Pepper Flakes to taste, if heat is desired

In a skillet over medium-low heat, combine garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and mustard. Bring to a boil, then turn off heat. Set aside until ready to use.

Shrimp and Broccoli
1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup cornstarch
Vegetable oil, for frying
1 tablespoon Toasted sesame seeds

Cut broccoli into florets. Place broccoli in a large pot fitted with a rack and steam until tender-crisp.

Meanwhile, in a medium mixing bowl, season shrimp with salt and pepper. Dredge shrimp in cornstarch.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1/2-inch of oil. Cook shrimp until golden and cooked through, about 3 minutes. Drain skillet of any excess oil while leaving the shrimp in the pan. Spoon sauce over shrimp and stir-fry until slightly caramelized. Remove from heat.

To serve, spread broccoli in a serving platter. Top with shrimp and garnish with sesame seeds.