General Thai Stir-Fry
Thai Express's twist on a popular dish, featuring stir-fried ingredients in a signature General Thai sauce.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Thai Express Restaurant Gatineau
General Thai Stir-Fry, as offered by Thai Express, is likely a fusion dish, drawing inspiration from General Tso's Chicken (a Chinese-American creation) and incorporating Thai flavors and ingredients. General Tso's Chicken itself has murky origins, possibly emerging from Taiwanese cuisine before becoming a staple in North American Chinese restaurants. The 'General' in the name is believed to refer to General Tso Tsung-tang, a Qing dynasty military leader, though there's no direct link between him and the dish's creation. Thai Express's version adapts this sweet and savory profile with Thai culinary elements.
While not a traditionally authentic Thai dish, General Thai Stir-Fry at Thai Express reflects the globalized nature of food and how cuisines evolve through adaptation and fusion. It showcases the willingness to blend culinary traditions to create new and appealing flavors.
Fusion Cuisine
The dish exemplifies the concept of fusion cuisine, where different culinary traditions are combined to create something new. It leverages familiar elements from Chinese-American cuisine while incorporating Thai flavors.
Adaptation to Local Palates
The creation and popularity of dishes like General Thai Stir-Fry demonstrate how restaurants adapt their offerings to cater to local tastes and preferences, creating dishes that are appealing and accessible to a wider audience.
General Thai Stir-Fry offers a balance of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy flavors, characteristic of many Thai dishes. The sauce is a key component, lending the dish its signature taste.
The General Thai sauce typically features a base of soy sauce, sugar (often palm sugar for a more authentic Thai flavor), vinegar (rice vinegar being common), and chili peppers or chili paste for heat. Garlic and ginger are also likely included for aromatic depth. The stir-fried ingredients, which may include chicken, shrimp, or tofu, along with vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, onions, and carrots, absorb the sauce, creating a cohesive and flavorful dish. The sauce provides a glossy, sticky coating, enhancing the overall experience.
Spice Level Customization
If ordering from Thai Express or a similar restaurant, inquire about the spice level and adjust it to your preference. Some establishments allow you to specify mild, medium, or hot.
Fresh Ingredients (if homemade)
When preparing this dish at home, use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh ginger, garlic, and vegetables will significantly enhance the taste compared to dried or pre-cut alternatives.
Don't Overcrowd the Pan (if homemade)
When stir-frying, avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook the ingredients in batches to ensure they are properly seared and don't steam, which can result in a soggy texture.
Explore additional Stir-fry dishes and restaurants
Explore Stir-fryDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Gatineau.
Explore GatineauLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Canada.
Explore Canada