Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thigh, boned and cubed
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup cornstarch, plus
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 5 dried chili pods
- 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons rice wine
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
Directions:
- In a large bowl, thoroughly blend the 1/2 cup of cornstarch and the eggs; add the chicken and toss to coat.
- If the mixture is too thick, add some vegetable oil to separate the pieces.
- In a small bowl, prepare the sauce mixture by combining the 2 tsp cornstarch with the wine, vinegar, sugar and soy sauce.
- First-Stage Frying: Heat 1-2 inches of peanut oil in a wok to medium-high heat (350-400).
- Fry the chicken in small batches, just long enough to cook the chicken through.
- Remove the chicken to absorbent paper and allow to stand (this step can be performed well in advance, along with the sauce mixture, with both refrigerated).
- Second-Stage Frying: Leave a tablespoon or two of the oil in the wok.
- Add the pepper pods to the oil and stir-fry briefly, awakening the aroma but not burning them.
- Return the chicken to the wok and stir-fry until the pieces are crispy brown.
- The General's Favorite Sauce: Add the sauce-mixture to the wok, tossing over the heat until the sauce caramelizes into a glaze (1-2 minutes).
- Serve immediately.
- Serves 4, along with steamed broccoli and rice.