The Search for General Tso

The Search for General Tso poster

The Search for General Tso

The Search for General Tso is a 2014 documentary film directed by Ian Cheney. The film explores the origins and popularity of General Tso's chicken, a staple of Chinese American cuisine. The documentary delves into the history of the dish, its cultural significance, and the broader context of Chinese food in the United States.

Synopsis

The film begins by investigating the origins of General Tso's chicken, a dish named after Zuo Zongtang, a prominent 19th-century Chinese military leader. Despite its name, the dish is virtually unknown in China. The documentary traces the dish's creation to Peng Chang-kuei, a chef from Hunan Province who fled to Taiwan during the Chinese Civil War and later introduced the dish to the United States.

Cultural Impact

The Search for General Tso examines how General Tso's chicken became a symbol of Chinese American cuisine. The film highlights the role of Chinese immigrants in shaping American food culture and the adaptation of traditional Chinese dishes to suit American tastes. It also explores the broader phenomenon of American Chinese cuisine, which includes dishes like Chop suey and Fortune cookies.

Production

The documentary features interviews with food historians, chefs, and restaurant owners. It also includes archival footage and visits to various locations significant to the history of General Tso's chicken, including Hunan Province, Taiwan, and various cities in the United States.

Reception

The Search for General Tso received positive reviews from critics for its engaging storytelling and insightful exploration of cultural history. The film was praised for shedding light on the complexities of cultural exchange and the immigrant experience in America.

See Also

• General Tso's chicken
• Chinese American cuisine
• American Chinese cuisine
• Zuo Zongtang
• Peng Chang-kuei