🇨🇳🇺🇸 My dad's General Tso's Chicken (左宗棠鸡) - A Chinese American Icon

Watch Daddy Lau teach us how to make General Tso's Chicken, a dish he's made thousands of times in his 50 years as a Chinese chef.
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👩‍🍳 JOIN THE CANTO COOKING CLUB 👩‍🍳
Develop the intuition and foundation to cook Cantonese food with exclusive classes from Daddy Lau!
Join the club: bit.ly/3HCJcde
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🍴 RECIPE + INGREDIENTS🍴
Check out our blog for an adjustable list of ingredients and step-by-step videos:
madewithlau.com/recipes/gener...
🙏 SUPPORT OUR CHANNEL 🙏
If you enjoy these videos and want to support us being able to continue creating content for many years to come, we’d love for you to consider becoming a patron of Made With Lau.
/ madewithlau
👋 CONNECT WITH US 👋
/ madewithlau
/ madewithlau
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🔗 LINKS MENTIONED 🔗
The Search for General Tso: amzn.to/3bF7rZC
On Wok Hei: • 😍 How to Make Chow Fu...
Additional recommended reading/watching
Omsom's photo essay on why they don't use the word "authentic": / cmsl-dnbac4
@ChineseCookingDemystified on "Why Chinese Food uses so much from the Americas" - • Why Chinese Food uses ... ​
Atlas Obscura on how Monterey's once-thriving Chinese community was forced out - www.atlasobscura.com/articles...
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🍳 COOKWARE WE USE/LOVE 🍳
- Electric Burner: geni.us/electricburner
- Non-Stick Wok: geni.us/nonstickwok
- Carbon Steel Wok: geni.us/carbonsteelwok
- Non-Stick Pan: shrsl.com/305jb
- Carbon Steel Pan: shrsl.com/305j9
- Stainless Steel Skillet: shrsl.com/305j8
- Cookware Set: shrsl.com/305j7
- 8 Quart Pot: shrsl.com/305j6
- Cookware Collections: shrsl.com/305j5
- Pan Protector: shrsl.com/305j0
- Carbon Steel Seasoning Wax: shrsl.com/305iz
🔪 KNIVES WE USE/LOVE 🔪
- Dad's 40 year old Chinese Chef Knife: geni.us/dadschefknife, geni.us/Vtjn
- Chef Knife: shrsl.com/305is
- Santoku Knife: shrsl.com/305iu
- Starter Knife Set: shrsl.com/305iw
- Sharpening Stone Set: shrsl.com/305iy
👨‍🍳 KITCHEN ACCESSORIES WE USE/LOVE 👨‍🍳
- Magnetic Knife Strip (storage): shrsl.com/305j3
- Cutting Board: shrsl.com/305j2
- Instant Read Thermometer #1: geni.us/bluetooththermometer
- Instant Read Thermometer #2: geni.us/wirelessthermometer
- Food Scale: geni.us/ourfoodscale
🍜 DAD'S SPECIAL INGREDIENTS 🍜
If you don't live near an Asian market, you buy these online / on Amazon:
- Kikkoman Sesame Oil: geni.us/kkmsesameoil
- Kikkoman Soy Sauce: geni.us/kkmsoysauce
- Kikkoman Tamari: geni.us/kkmtamari
- Kikkoman Oyster Sauce: geni.us/kkmoystersauce
- Rice Cooking Wine: geni.us/ZHJK
- Chili Oil: geni.us/DX1vm
- Hoisin Sauce: geni.us/lmBz0
- Chicken Bouillon: geni.us/2Eu7CU
- Shaoxing Cooking Wine: geni.us/M93Zer
- Chinese Sausage / Lap Cheung: geni.us/kdKvxv1
Options for Vegetarian Oyster Sauce
- geni.us/kkmoystersauceveg
🎥 MY CAMERA GEAR! 🎥
- My Workhorse Camera: geni.us/DAeHJ
- My Lens for Wide Shots: geni.us/cLfu64x
- My Lens for Detail Shots: geni.us/9aDaf5
- My Macro Lens: geni.us/bzn6Vy
- My Main Light: geni.us/ZK5XVe
- My Light Softbox: geni.us/PmOs8FK
- My Camera Slider: geni.us/BUd8
Note: These links are affiliate links, which means that if you use our links to purchase these ingredients, our family earns a small amount for the sale - at no extra cost to you. If you use these links, we really appreciate the support!
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⏲ CHAPTERS ⏲
00:00 - Intro
00:40 - Cut chicken
00:54 - Background on General Tso’s Chicken
01:43 - Marinate chicken
02:24 - Prepare chicken batter
03:24 - How do you know if your batter is the right consistency?
03:41 - Chop other ingredients
04:38 - Start heating oil for deep frying
04:55 - A quick primer on oils and smoke points
06:02 - How do you know if the oil is hot enough to fry?
07:44 - Create sauce mix
08:41 - Mix chicken with batter and start frying
10:32 - Remove chicken from wok #1
11:45 - Deep fry chicken #2
12:23 - Cook the sauce + flavors
13:58 - My thoughts on discrimination, "authentic" cuisine
17:41 - Has dad tried General Tso’s Chicken back in China?
18:20 - More on why we fry the chicken twice
19:02 - My parents’ stories on not having cooking oil in China
20:09 - Can you reuse the oil for later?
21:06 - Life lessons for Cam Cam
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🎵 OTHER CREDITS 🎵
Intro Flute Music - Performed by Daddy Lau
Copyright Chillhop Music - chll.to/49e6fa9c
Copyright Chillhop Music - chll.to/4ca8cc15
Overhead Camera Rig built by P.Oak - / p.oak.co

[@MadeWithLau]

Enjoying our content? Join the Canto Cooking Club - bit.ly/3DKuHTw Support us on Patreon - www.patreon.com/madewithlau Get the full recipe here - madewithlau.com/recipes/general-tsos-chicken What'd you think of Daddy Lau's recipe? Would love to get your thoughts on authentic cuisine as well!

[@Papaya72]

Continue with the great work.

[@WanderTheNomad]

Forgot to pin the comment!

[@KaptajnKaffe]

Daddy Lau is the boss!

[@kennethpetersonjr.8165]

i cant wait to try this at home. does your dad have a recipe for pork fried dumplings. and the dough?

[@StrickerRei-Chn]

Newcomer to this channel here. The first time I had this dish is in the states.... and before that, I never knew this existed. No Chinese restaurant serves this in Hong Kong, and Canton. But i love this and peanut butter chicken.

[@nkirukauzuegbunam6419]

i'm an immigrant from nigeria and have had to innovate on our dishes using the vegetables and other ingredients available here. I believe that this does not take away any of its authenticity. It may not be traditional, but it sure is authentically nigerian american, and as such, still is nigerian.

[@snomonkey33]

Where is your restaurant?

[@NachozMan]

An incredibly open minded way of thinking, and I agree! It will never be a bad thing to have more variations on one particular dish!

[@dylanalbertson5269]

people think that nontraditional means unauthentic, you may switch up the ingredients a bit but if it still captures the same flavor and love you would have made it with back home then it is authentic in my eyes

[@lallen8029]

you need your own food channel

[@MadeWithLau]

Love that point of view @nkiruka uzuegbunam! Agree, we need to see your food ❤️ If you start a KZbin channel would love to see it!

[@Alain.Robert]

I loved the parents telling the kids how hard it was in their time. I think every culture in the world has a version of this.

[@williamjackson5942]

Like my father claiming he had to walk through snow up to his chest to school so his sisters could get there more easily and it was up hill both ways!

[@jy6960]

My dad always tells me their story whenever he catches me not doing the homework.

[@THESLlCK]

@@jy6960 good

[@misterkaos.357]

@@williamjackson5942 And he had to fight a bear, both on the way to school and on the way home.

[@Ishkur23]

The 20th century was not a pleasant time to live. No matter where you lived.

[@Akivaran]

I loved watching this video. There’s no screaming or funky camera movements, just a simple man cooking. What made it better was the addition of the information and little asides. Honestly, it was so awesome. And I liked hearing the dad talk in his language, with the subs at the bottom. Really great video and will be watching more.

[@matthewhook3375]

Same, I love the sound of Cantonese!

[@Keeblor]

You have extremely high quality editing skills. Thank you as well for the history and the way you turned this recipe into a story was just top notch.

[@MadeWithLau]

Awww thank you very much Joshua! That means a lot!! So glad you enjoyed it :)

[@azuldemar13]

Agree! Congratulations Randy, you are doing a great job. Your Dad is an excellent chef, hope you learn how to cook all those recipe, at least in on videos 😄, and thanking you for sharing them and your family culture. I would have liked to do the same with my mom because she was a great cook too. Unfortunately, technology came after she past away. I was looking for a recipe of a rice dumpling soup but can't find it.

[@krumel20]

Daddy Lau is our living treasure. He is such a kindhearted man. Long live to your channel. 💐💐💐

[@MadeWithLau]

Thank you so much for your kind words @krumel20! We are so grateful for your support 🙏🏼❤️

[@rg20322]

Totally agree and his inspiration on simple cooking, and kindhearted nature.

[@raggedyhaggity250]

Uncle Lau is a representation of our elders and beloved head of the family. May he live a long, long happy and healthy life doing whatever he wants to do😍

[@MadeWithLau]

Thank you so much for the kind wishes for dad 🙇🏻‍♂️❤️

[@gabagool5487]

Working at my local Chinese food place made me love not only the food we served to customers, but the food that the owners made me when they also ate themselves. I still remember to this day the hog hocks that Sue made me. Love that woman. " just like my mama used to make" she said. Delicuous and soft and amazing

[@primerib2928]

Just discovered this channel. Our town doesn’t have a good Chinese restaurant anymore after covid. I love the step by step directions. Your Dad is charming and a talented chef. Thank you for sharing him with us…also it’s a great way to preserve your heritage.

[@rain.faded.]

Thank you for your reflection on "authenticity" vs "Amercianized' Chinese food. You're absolutely right - if anything it's reflective of the resilience of the immigrants that strove to create a future for themselves. People shouldn't be gatekeeping dishes created by Asian people - whether "Westernized" or not. Food is food, and it came from the heart and hard work of those people. And thank you for sharing your father's knowledge. Too often techniques, recipes, viewpoints don't get passed down to successive generations (often in attempts to assimilate and fit in the the local population). The world is a better place with this knowledge, rather than letting it be lost to time.

[@rain.faded.]

@@Nat3_H1gg3rs Ok edgelord

[@XC-iy4il]

I agree, but the problem is, these Americanized Chinese food in most cases are the ONLY things on the menu, excluding the diversity of Chinese cuisines in the greater China region. This is what makes people upset.

[@neoroxx]

it's not a problem as long as it's telling people this is not an authentic Chinese dish. Many Westernised foods are portraying itself as "authentic" and this needs to be stopped.

[@dannychen9685]

I love how your dad took this Classical Chinese American Iconic "General Tso's Chicken" and reveal how I can make it at home. These videos always exude a heartwarming atmosphere.

[@MadeWithLau]

Thanks so much Danny! Our family is so happy to be able to share with you and are so grateful to hear how much you are enjoying them ❤️

[@williamvale9652]

I love learning how foods are prepped and "paused" for use in restaurants. It really helps me when I want to cook food in bulk say on the weekend, and prepare it properly when I am ready to eat it rather than relying on a microwave. It's great to see your interest in your father's work and I'm sure it means the world to him that you want to keep his legacy alive. Thanks for the videos.

[@jamar1947]

As a black American, I grew up in Buffalo NY. Chinese food was prevalent. This was my favorite. So I made it today and thanks Lau Family for sharing this recipe. I can cook very well and this came out amazing. I wish I could show you pictures but I can’t here. Anyway, I’ve subscribed and enjoy your channel. Thank you so much for a beautiful and tasty recipe.

[@phangjackson]

I absolutely love your stance on what constitute an "authentic" Chinese food. Being a food enthusiast myself, I once found myself in the dilemma between keeping up with what is "authentic" and what actually suits my palate. After a while, I came to a realisation that food should be something that unites people, that brings happiness; if that's so, why do we bother to keep on fighting with each other about whose dish is more authentic than the other's? So here's a middle ground I've reached: when I learn about a new dish that I have never tried, I look for recipes shared by the locals of the place that the dish originated from. I follow their steps to the book, as much as I can (because some ingredients are not so readily available in where I am) just to learn about what the food actually tastes like. Then, I take inspirations from these dishes and customise them to suit my own personal taste. I think that's the respect I am showing to food: paying homage to their origins while at the same time preserving their relevancy in the locality I'm in. Just my two cents. Cheers!

[@MadeWithLau]

Well said!!! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and for watching our segment on it!

[@reidellis1988]

You do you. I love Asian food, but fusion cooking is bomb. imho.

[@heftymagic4814]

your literally speaking words without meaning. authentics shouldnt be tossed aside because food is supposed to bring people together, that is just the level of importance you placed upon it for having a dilemma about authetic dishes and your own palette

[@PutItAway101]

I've always thought that anything Chinese people eat is automatically "authentic Chinese" just because Chinese people eat it. If it's 1000 year old recipe, cool. If it was invented last week by an innovative Chinese chef, also cool.

[@jglee6721]

Hey Randy, these videos are not only going to be family treasures but international treasures as well. Good job, and say hi to Daddy Lau.

[@ludwigvanlouie646]

Totally concur. It should be a International treasures.

[@MadeWithLau]

Thanks so much JG Lee! I'm so grateful that I have this opportunity to film my dad and that my family has the ability to share them with you and the rest of the world 🙇🏻‍♂️❤️

[@kangarooninja2594]

I remember the first time I ate Chinese food. I grew up very poor and had never been to a restaurant before, a nice family from our church took us out to eat Chinese. I had sweet and sour chicken and I was floored. It was magical. Now I eat sweet and sour chicken at least once a month and it's always like the first time, magical.

[@lilianr513]

loved your detour into what is "authentic" food and avoiding gatekeeping

[@FloLum]

Love what you and your dad are doing here! Your dad is totally legit! My dad was also from Toishan... maybe we’re related. 😆

[@MadeWithLau]

Haha probably are! 😆😆 Thanks so much Flo. We love and respect what you are creating on your channel!

[@jadett6282]

i hear a collab coming 😁!!

[@cillaloves2fish688]

Hi Flo!

[@AlexManMe]

Next video do the whole video in Toisan accent 😆

[@adriant3749]

Hi Flo Lum I loved your cooking channel too. You and Dude made a perfect couple.😍

[@marijkeschellenbach2680]

I was born in Indonesia and had Chinese food there and when my daughter adopted a little girl in China we ate in Beijing and Wuhan and Guangzhou. I loved how you described the Chinese dishes as being "authentic" or not and that there is no right or wrong. What a lovely family you have. I am enjoying watching your dad cook.

[@MadeWithLau]

Aw thank you so much Marijke! What a beautiful story you have. We are so SO grateful you found our channel and to have the opportunity to share our family and our recipes with you!

[@peterrabinowitz1723]

One of the things that make this guy special is he shows you the “wrong” in addition to the “right”. Like showing the batter being too thick or showing the oil not hot enough. Most tv cooks don’t do that. Keep up the great work. :)

[@edwinmendija8087]

Interesting that you brought up Chinese history and mentioned Monterey, CA as a young soldier in the mid 80's my friends & I frequented a Chinese restaurant there. I used that sauce your father shared in this video and it brought back the taste and smell of that place but better!!!! Please extend my appreciation and mahalo to your father and all your family for such a great memory and dish....

[@metaphysicalgraffiti]

I'm an extremely picky eater, but I'm in love with your channel. I would be so proud to call this man my dad.

[@MadeWithLau]

Oh wow thanks for the kind words about dad Jesse! I feel so lucky to have him as my father and grateful that through these videos we get to share his recipes with you ❤️

[@MiteshMaster]

I'm really loving the talks at the table after the cooking lesson. Thanks for sharing your family's dinner table.

[@MadeWithLau]

So grateful to hear you enjoy this part of our videos Mitesh Master! Can't wait to keep sharing more with you!

[@williampatterson3408]

Amazing. This has to be one of the easiest most straightforward General Tso chicken recipes I’ve ever seen. Excellent job on documenting your family in this recipe.

[@billnyethesciencedenier1516]

This is the first video of yours I've ever seen. I'm only 30 seconds in and already I can see a loving, talented family that respects their elders.

[@Will_JJHP]

The nuggets of knowledge and wisdom your dad shares are pure gold. Thank you for creating this channel!

[@MadeWithLau]

It's our honor to be able to make and share these videos with you! Thank you so much for watching ❤️

[@random1940]

Wow, Randy! Daddy Lau has done it again! I enjoy watching him enjoy making and explaining each and every step of this dish. He is obviously in his element. He certainly enjoy and has earned his spotlight. Thanks to you a good son - he is having his moment!!! Your mom is precious too, as well as your lovely wife and child. Thank you Randy.

[@MadeWithLau]

Thanks so much G Souza! I'm so glad you feel that way. It was actually a reason I wanted to do this channel. I feel like he has so much talent and since retiring he hasn't been able to show it. He's having a ton of fun doing these videos and getting the chance to share!

[@nateroo]

Your Dad is an AMAZING chef and I applaud your view(s) on authenticity. It's the purists who will never be able to enjoy delicious food such as what your Dad cooks on your channel because they think it's not authentic... thanx very much to you and your Dad/Family for sharing his talent!!

[@ApexlegendsPS5]

I can tell just by looking at dad that he is a well respected man 🙏 God bless him all the days of his life. Dad cooked the food so beautiful. I never seen food look so beautiful as this food did. God bless him. I can tell by looking at him he is a very very classy and respectful man God bless him. Its good to still have our elders around with us in these days. God bless him abundantly and all blessings and his heatst desires. Food came out beautiful dad. Im definitely using this recipe. Oh but wait, most importantly, first off if like to say thank you for even willing and wanting to dhare your beautiful amazing recipe with us dad. God bless you. 👏👏👏 Everybody please give this video a like and a thumbs up.

[@karl1949]

Family, Traditions, History, Culture, Cuisine and Sharing make a fantastic pairing. I love hearing the phonetics of the Chinese language with subtitles. Your father has a welcoming tone, thank you for inviting us into your home and encouraging us all to be students of Chinese culture and cuisine apprentices in your family kitchen. M goi

[@MadeWithLau]

Thank you so much Karl! We are so grateful for your support and to hear how much you are enjoying the channel. We are so happy to have you join us in our home every week with these videos and can't wait to share many more ❤️

[@supermariolover5063]

Warms my heart when seeing how your family interact. Love it, and well said about authentic.

[@BudderChezMC]

I made this today and it took me double the time that was predicted, aka 1 hour since I’m very inexperienced at cooking, but it was SO WORTH IT. Your dad’s recipe is DELICIOUS. Thank you both for taking the time and effort to share these recipes with the world.

[@freakgeeky]

What I find amazing about this video is not only learning to make the dish, but also learning the rich historical culture about how Western Chinese dishes evolved. Also, learning about the different smoke points for oil is genius on your part. Thank you for the well-rounded lesson.

[@thatdarnmage1515]

Just stumbled upon this gem of a channel and I've got to say that you're family is amazing. You can see how much passion your father has for his craft. KZbin needs more content like this!

[@Leedeane100]

Dude, I’ve been cooking a very similar recipe for a friggin decade and couldn’t figure out what I was missing until this video. Thank you and your father.

[@sdqsdq6274]

art of cooking , lol , there many theory behind

[@YochevedDesigns]

I absolutely love your closing comments. I'm a middle aged Jewish woman, and Chinese cooking is one of my passions. Thank you for creating such relatable content.

[@beberivera7011]

Im a new York (bronx( born n raised Puerto Rican and I appreciate the authentic Chinese family recipe sharing tradition. Thank you so much for sharing!!!!!

[@loudonbands6296]

Oh wow! I feel like I was invited into your home and your father was gracious enough to share his recipe. I like the fact that you wove the history of the dish into the demonstration as well. I plan to try this at home! Please ask your dad, in his opinion, how this dish could be made more friendly for diabetics. I love Chinese food, and compensate with insulin, but if there are adjustments that can be made, we would welcome them from a chef of his experience!

[@someguynamedbrian]

Thank you for making these videos! I'm also a second generation Chinese-American. My family owned a restaurant in South Florida (my uncle was the chef) and all of the dishes that you are featuring are very nostalgic for me. Side note: my Chinese name is also Hong. I'm not sure if it is exactly the same as your son's name, but my mom's family is from Toisan, so watching your videos is probably the first time I'm hearing "Hong-Doy", and not having it refer to me 😂. I love that you include your family eating together. One detail some folks might not catch is that you always serve your dad, mom and wife before serving yourself. This is something that me and my brothers always did, and still do when we share meals with our families, and I love seeing you do the same!

[@MadeWithLau]

Thanks so much Brian! That really makes my day to read and makes it all worthwhile! Awesome to meet another Hong! His full Chinese is Wei Hong and Hong Doy for short. Can imagine that being funny to hear since Hong-Doy is not a common nickname 😆 Appreciate your support and kind words. Can't wait to continue sharing more with you!

[@Alex-vi3sj]

I'm from China and after tasting the General Tso's Chicken in US, I love it and try to find the recipe on KZbin🤣

[@monapargee4678]

Loved your thoughts about what "authentic" Chinese cuisine looks like from one person to another. Thank you for sharing!

[@nuROMANTICS]

This channel is hitting a special part in my heart! The love for family and food! I love your dad! These videos are invaluable!

[@pameladiaz6868]

What a 10 star video - the food and the history both. Tommorow will be General Tso made using this video and careful instructions your dad has shared. Thank you so much. I have retired and spend hours studying Chinese history. daily. As a Black American I understand the concept of random hate - grew up in the deep south. We must stop it and as you stated - learn to love others. It begins with understanding we are all children of God.

[@MadeWithLau]

🙏🏼🙏🏼 wow thank you so much Pamela! We are so incredibly grateful that you found our video and to know that you stand with us and for love. It's incredible that you have spent hours studying Chinese history daily. We feel so blessed to have you in our community and can't wait to continue sharing more with you ❤️

[@IrishRebel88]

For years my wife has been begging me to learn how to cook Chinese/Asian dishes at home. Such a blessing to find this channel. Thank you both for all the great content and education you provide!!!

[@patriciacrosby5053]

Always loved the Chinese people as well as their food. My family introduced us to the food in 1958, I was 8 years old. I’m 72 and it’s my favorite food to eat out. I’m American, Italian decent. Love my food, but Chinese food especially Cantonese, is my second favorite. I like to have some at least one a week. I pick Chinese for my birthday out to eat gathering. Glad my parents took us to Chinese restaurant’s. ♥️♥️🙏🙏🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@vernshang1]

Really love your videos. Your dad is a humble chef. Surprisingly, he got all the patience which most chef doesn't have. I learnt a lot from your videos.

[@miguelgagne3820]

I am so grateful that you and your father take the time to make these videos! A big thank you to your father for his generosity! I can't wait to cook for my own son, family and friends!

[@WriterOfMany]

I have to say, Randy, that your words on authentic vs inauthentic food helped me feel better about different cuisines. Not just Chinese, but Mexican, Japanese, Korean, etc. I've always wondered if I truly like Asian food, or if I like Asian-American food. But as long as I'm enjoying it, it doesn't really matter. Food is food! Also: it seems it is really hard for Chinese restaurants to get it crispy! 😕 it is always soft. And it's never spicy enough! Sometimes it's not spicy at all and mostly savory-sweet. Daddy Lau's General Tso chicken looks so good 😋

[@jw7268]

If a dish was inspired by the country/people from the country, it is that food. Especially if it enables others to appreciate and dive deeper into more "authentic" versions of the cuisine. I'd never tought I'd eat beef tongue till I evolved from chicken burritos to loving lengua tacos.

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

I could just hug this wonderful man, how lucky you are to have your Dad!

[@susan-pham]

Loved that you covered some history about Chinese immigrants, the challenges, and Chinese-American cuisine. Looking forward to the next video!

[@MadeWithLau]

Thanks so much Susan! We can't wait to keep sharing more with you every week!

[@suzannemcallister5052]

Have you ever checked out the Chinese Historical Society of America based in SF? I support it and they have incredible talks, books, museum. CHSA, check it out. Suzanne Yee McAllister

[@DoctaFlood]

Should also make a video covering what they fled from in China. Would be more illuminating. Worked for a Chinese restaurant delivering food for a couple years on and off between other jobs. Owner's mom saw her entire family gunned down in front of her.

[@michaelhaire7319]

@@DoctaFlood yeah for real. Especially what has been going on in Hong Kong.

[@andrewyip3384]

@@MadeWithLau Really appreciate the history. I always found it a bit abrasive when newer generations of Chinese and non-Chinese alike criticize these dishes as not authentic when there's so much history of struggle and survival with these dishes. Many of these dishes came about to cater to western palates and also, the ingredients were readily available at the time.

[@kimberlygoodwin8500]

It’s neat to see what is authentic Chinese and what is American. Growing up I never knew there was a difference and now I know it’s interesting to see how dishes were created or evolved. Thank you!

[@MadeWithLau]

So glad to hear you enjoyed learning about that Kimberly! Thanks for watching another of our videos ❤️

[@Chocobo0Scribe]

That’s what my great grandparents did when they ran their resteraunt. Just improvise with the available ingredients and what the local taste was along with the Chinese veggies they had since some of the locals wanted to try them.

[@HRgirl1110]

I absolutely love all of your videos. I enjoy trying the recipes. But most of all I love watching your dad cook and then the whole family gathering at the end to eat and discuss the details. What a beautiful family! You are truly blessed 💕

[@chrisross1657]

My favorite part of the video is your dads before and after picture. Absolutely BEAUTIFUL !! As people, we tend to see the elderly for who they are and we can forget who they were. They paved the road that we walk on today so remembering them for who they were is priceless !!! I have tried one other General Tso recipe on here and it was so so. I live near Chinatown in Oakland so the competition is very, very high. I will update this post after I try this recipe. 🤞🤞🤞

[@Multi3003]

Chef Dad explains very clearly. He is so patient.

[@MadeWithLau]

🙇🏻‍♂️🙇🏻‍♀️ we bow down to him!

[@CrankyOldNerd]

This is the neatest thing I've seen in a while, so cool you're recording your dad's cooking. I wished i'd been able to do this with my grandma, lost so many things she knew how to do that weren't passed on.

[@louisbeer4720]

Your dad is brilliant. And you have done a wonderful job of sharing a culinary treasure. Thank you!

[@jerrybdlben231]

I believe the combination of the respectful son and life-long chef/father is ingenious and such a treat. My heart always swells when I watch the entire family share a meal and my stomach 🙇🏼‍♂️🙇🏼‍♂️🙇🏼‍♂️🙇🏼‍♂️ adores the great food. I trust everyone has many years of health ahead! From Halifax, Nova Scotia !!

[@degueloface]

Man you poured your heart out at the end. So incredible. I don't know you but I think it is okay to say I am proud of you for putting this together. Well done.

[@HenryTravels92]

Beeing a norwegian who loves chinese (and asian) inspired dishes, this is such a golden channel for me! Love beeing able to make this type of food myself and i can't wait to test this one out. Thank you for sharing you're father's knownledge.

[@CyberSpaceFilms]

As a fellow Norwegian I agree!

[@Unrealize]

I'll jump on here and agree as well. Have you tried it yet?

[@syri8766]

Hey, do you know how much time the second fry takes?

[@HenryTravels92]

@@syri8766 not long, depends on the heat. You should really see it turning abit more golden brown. it is really easy to overcook the meat tho so rather pull it out early and let it rest for a few minutes on a rack or in a bowl with kitchen paper :)

[@50Toots]

I have just discovered your channel! I enjoy watching the love of your family as much as I love the food instructions. May you have many, man, many more years of joy! I am one who doesn't understand the hate and fear people have of other people who don't happen to be exactly like them. I was raised to appreciate our differences and celebrate our common humanity. Thank you so much for sharing all that you do and giving me the privilege to share in your joy of life!

[@muhammadzia9064]

Thank you for sharing this. It touched my heart to hear the dad describing the cooking technique. He was outright, not apologetic, not seeking any kudos just teaching for this son. Amazing!

[@sharonferrari428]

Thank goodness for this website, I shop at an Asian store that is new in our area. This store has everything and his wife is from Thailand! They have a restaurant and the store has everything I need to prepare your Dad's recipes. Thank you for great recipes and bless your family.

[@MadeWithLau]

That's amazing! So great that shop opened up near you. Hope you become good friends with the couple that runs it ❤️

[@pignapoke6772]

Despite the language barrier his instructions are so simple and clear. He takes the anxiety out of cooking! Your narration is spot on!!!

[@aeroball8360]

loved this video my friend. perfect blend of history, cooking, food philosophy, and life lessons. We wanna see more of grandpa!

[@aegiltech]

I've always loved how food can speak to our wider cultural experiences, and more importantly connect us over cultural divides. Thanks for sharing the time with your family.

[@JohnSmith-jo4hz]

Your dad reminds me of my late Grandad who was also a chef from Guangdong, seeing you make these videos in an effort to preserve our Chinese heritage really warms my heart, keep it up!

[@MadeWithLau]

Thanks so much John. It's an honor to do these videos and be able to capture not only the food, but also my parents stories and culture. Appreciate hearing how much you are enjoying them too!

[@ghoste1605]

Your videos and watching your family values together are a breath of fresh air to watch ty!

[@billocsedet5289]

This is my favorite cooking show. Thank you for the clear instructions and for the fascinating history behind this meal. Your Dad is an amazing chef!

[@drangedhermit]

In regards to what is "authentic", well said Randy, well said!!

[@danusmc3]

Loved this! Your father is amazing and I feel his passion! He has a great personality. And I had a Chinese friend ridicule me for loving General Tso's chicken. A bit of overcompensation in my opinion. But nice to see someone talk about it as you have. But back to you. You all seem to be great people and would love being friends with your family and would enjoy being invented over for dinner and the fellowship with you! Great video. Much love!!!!

[@VCBee042]

Your dad is a cool dude and I thoroughly enjoyed watching him cook.

[@andrearobinson2512]

I love watching your dad cook. I speak precious little Chinese but, enjoy listening to him anyway. I've already made the chicken congee numerous times. This will be next!! 😊

[@bobcarn]

If a recipe was invented here by Chinese immigrants, it's just as authentic as ones invented in mainland China. I'm Italian, and there's a big difference between northern and southern Italian cuisine, even though it's all "Italian". It's the people making up the dish that gives it its authenticity. I can't wait to try this recipe!

[@panda5996]

When you say Chinese food, it is like saying European food. You got turks and russians all the way to french each diverse. And China even has more population than europe..

[@thedarwinist672]

So is NYC pizza Italian?

[@inkbottle6150]

Is pineapple Pizza Italian?

[@inkbottle6150]

The Chinese immigrants invented this dish for the American customers but not for the Chinese immigrants' community. So, I don't think this is authentic Chinese food.

[@panda5996]

@@inkbottle6150 But you know? I have asked a couple of Chinese descendants living in America and they love this dish. Does that mean the Chinese people living outside of China are not authentic (fake) Chinese or are you saying authentic Chinese people only make authentic Chinese food only for authentic Chinese people? Absurd. What is an authentic Chinese person anyway? Politics? Skin color? Culture? Religion? Language? They all vary depending on the places you go! Hong Kong, Taiwan, Mainland and MORE!! All different! Which one is the authentic China anyway?

[@mokomothman5713]

Your commentary on the argument of "Authenticity" Is how I feel about Mexican Food. While the abundance of ingredients from Mexico is far easier to come by, some people still choose to argue whether or not Mexican food is authentic depending on where it's made. I think if you make it yourself, it's authentic, and that's all there is to it, It's the sharing of cultural cuisine and innovation of using new ingredients and cooking techniques that makes something like Chinese Food or Mexican Food so unique to America. It's that sharing/blending that makes it ours, and that in and of itself, is American. The argument itself is nothing more than flannel. Thank you for sharing.

[@ethanrodriguez408]

This has super quickly become one of my favorite channels ever! Since I started watching your videos a few weeks ago, I’ve been trying to start learning Cantonese. I just made this recipe today for dinner, and it’s my family’s absolute General Tso’s Chicken that we’ve ever had. Thank you so much for sharing this with us!

[@mmaybrown]

This is honestly very heart warming to me! Love to see the family together and dad telling his story of how he grew up. Beautiful!

[@bogdarosa937]

I agree with you. I really enjoyed the whole scenario, too; the cooking and the family time at the table. Priceless! 💕

[@KH-vi9tu]

I love this! The recipe, technique, and description is perfect! I love the history and thoughtful discussion, which really enriched the experience for me. What a beautiful family!

[@d.lawrencemiller5755]

Lau's knife skills are unbelievable. Give this man a fricken medal.

[@einundsiebenziger5488]

Guess having been a chef for 50 years helps with deleoping knife skills.

[@shirleychavez4870]

I discovered your channel a few months ago. I really enjoy watching your dad cook and share information on how to prepare the best food. I also enjoy watching your family enjoy the meal afterwards. The stories you and your parents tell are very interesting. I had my first Chinese meal in a little mom and pop restaurant in the Midwest and I was hooked. Blessings to your family and a big thank you for creating this wonderful KZbin channel. This week I bought the ingredients to make bok Choy soup. I’m looking forward to preparing more of your father’s recipes.

[@dinamcleod1608]

I just love your program and your family. The idea of a cooking show, a history lesson, and seeing the family sitting around the table expresses not only american values but represents that all famalies no matter what cultural background, can bond by taking the time together and enjoying each other. May many blessings be sent your way 🤗

[@CyndyTangerineyyyy]

This is super wholesome! Thank you for these videos. We can learn how to make food while practicing our Cantonese listening comprehension skills at the same time.

[@MadeWithLau]

Thanks so much for the love Cyndy! We are so grateful to be able to share these videos with you each week!

[@michaelip4827]

多谢～刘老，没有忘记当年，香港人所出的贡獻！

[@MadeWithLau]

是的，我吾會忘记当年嘅状况。非常感谢您的支持，祝您健康快乐！

[@billchen6166]

是香港亲戚，海外亲戚。不用蹭脸面。

[@simonsaquatics6869]

You have such a beautiful family. Your mother and father are true treasures. Thank you for sharing your family and your father's knowledge with us all.

[@ExxStreamOpinionByKalixRed]

I respect what you have to say about ones experience been authentic and not based around just the food.... TY for that

[@Default78334]

Speaking to your comments on authenticity, the oft-derided American-Chinese style sweet-and-sour sauce has definitely made its way back to the mainland. The squirrel fish I ate at a restaurant is the decidedly non-touristy city of Wuhan was served covered in it. The taste of ketchup was unmistakable. I'm also reminded of the video when Laowhy86 took his wife to an American-Chinese restaurant in upstate New York and she said that the General Tso's chicken tasted just like the 咕噜肉 you could get in a Chinese cafeteria.

[@CharonTFM]

The sauce you are talking about is authentic Chinese. Ketchup is Chinese for tomato sauce and was around centuries ago. Sweet and sour pork equivalent in China is Peking Pork which is deep fried with sweet and sour vinegar just without the colouring. You can say the Western Blend Of Chinese food is not Authentic Chinese but it is unmistakably Chinese and should proudly wear the badge of American Chinese food to pay homage to those Chinese who went through though times to create food that is accepted by the US. Trying to call it authentic in my opinion is trying to mask the food as Chinese in origin and doesn’t show case the history, blood, sweat and tears of those who left their motherland to travel to an unknown land, leaving behind their family and friends hoping to make a better life for themselves.

[@wwlee5]

things like tomato (south america), garlic (ukraine), and others came to the mainland long ago. the sweet sour I believe came a lot longer back before as other Asian cuisines in other Asian countries in villages use sweet sour sauce. moreover, in China, there are way too many styles and cuisines. example, teochew congee which no one can make authentically even by Cantonese cooks outside china; except Thailand, Malaysia by teochew people.

[@Default78334]

@@CharonTFM There are at least three different dishes in China that could be called "sweet and sour". Most of the western preparations are more similar to a Cantonese 咕噜肉 than either the Shanghai or Northeastern dishes. The version with ketchup (as in Heinz-style tomato ketchup, not some other sort of tomato sauce) is definitely a mid-20th century innovation (the more "traditional" version would use hawthorn syrup), though I guess this goes to a larger point that a surprising number of "traditional" dishes are more modern than most people realize.

[@MadeWithLau]

I love this whole thread. Feel like I'm learning a lot of new facts. Thank you all for sharing your thoughts and what you've learned 🙏🏼

[@BCThunderthud]

This discussion reminds me of when I used to go to this butcher shop in San Francisco Chinatown that sold sweet & sour pork by the pound, it was so sweet, meat candy. I live in New York now and they don't really favor that kind of thing so much, the bright red candy pork buns are also hard to find.

[@Kentuckywaterfall69]

I've been waiting to find a good General Tso's recipe and instructions. I now feel confident I can make this dish myself at home. Thank you and keep doing what you're doing God bless you and your family

[@scottlandmoore5180]

Thoroughly enjoying watching your father share the culture of the chinese people. The food is truly special. Your family is very kind and genuine.

[@bobbyho4586]

RANDY THATS THE RIGHT WAY. WOW DAD SAID FRY SOME PRAWN FOR YOU AND YOUR SON. THATS THE REAL GRAND FATHER LOVE FOR SON AND GRAND SON. RANDY YOU,VE A REALLY LOVING DAD WHO COOK GREAT CANTONESE DISH FOR ALL FAMILY. FRYING MEAT NEED MID LOW HEAT..ALWAYS FRY TWICE INSIDE JUICY OUT SIDE CRUNCHY . THIS IS CHINESE ART AND SKILL OF CHINESE COOKING.

[@McFleurystorm]

This channel is so wholesome. Please tell your dad that you have a new, very grateful subscriber. Much love from my family to yours from Canada 🥰

[@MadeWithLau]

Thanks for the love from Canada Mike! We are so grateful that you found us and we can’t wait to share many more recipes with you! ❤️

[@Ma121Hunter]

general tso's chicken is one of my favorites, and to see it so lovingly created by your dad was a privilege to see. thank you for sharing, you've got a new subscriber, and i cant wait to see more from you guys

[@cmcking2002]

I love that your mom, dad and whole family are together

[@roki5337]

You are so blessed to have your parents and to be able to archive these videos. the chats, conversations and smiles are everything.

[@FrazierMtnCheese]

You and your Dad are the best! What a great man and wonderful cook. Love your channel.

[@MadeWithLau]

Thanks so much Don! We appreciate your suppot!

[@RyanWeishalla]

General Tso's is one of my favorites when it is done well. I haven't tried to make it myself at home yet. Daddy Lau makes it look easy.

[@farsamomidpanah]

I can't believe it took me 2 years to find this video. The respect and honor you show towards the Asian community and hard working chefs / kitchen workers that provide food for Americans is so admirable. You have a beautiful family and this was an amazing video, you have a new subscriber bro, thank you!

[@wing6859]

I like how you always bring in the social historical side of the Chinese food into the videos and in such a seamless way as well. Well done and thank you!

[@brianwalsh6666]

A great lesson here from your dad and excellent narration from you! Lovely to see 3 generations of your happy family - you should be proud! Thanks, too, for the sobering history lesson at the end of the video. Sweet and sour applies to food and to life. I wish your family lots of sweet and a healthy dose of spicy! Brian

[@epyk]

Gratitude to you and your family for the walkthrough! Also, thank you for the great messaging throughout regarding culture and acceptance. ❤🤟

[@ericbergmueller2981]

What you have done with your father is created a TREASURE! Thank you for sharing it!

[@superdybonbon]

i spent a lot of my childhood in china/surrounded by chinese people in america. some of my fondest memories are running through chinese streets, eating street food and some of the best packaged candies. i was taught how to knit while my mom taught english and had a level of freedom and fun kids in america could only dream about. such wonderful memories and experiences, the chinese culture, especially the food and making jiaozi, will always be special to me. oh ya, and my "china blankets" that i've had since i was a kid. so much goodness!