Taiwanese Sweet and Sour Chicken with a Lavender Twist

Looking to add a unique and delightful twist to a classic Taiwanese dish? Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure with our recipe for Taiwanese Sweet and Sour Chicken with a hint of fragrant lavender. This fusion of flavors will take your palate on a journey through Taiwan's vibrant culinary scene and elevate your dinner to a whole new level. Let's dive into this delicious and aromatic recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 small onion, cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon lavender buds (culinary-grade), lightly crushed
• 1/4 cup water
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper.
2. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until well-coated.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and water until well combined.
2. Add the minced garlic and crushed lavender buds to the sauce mixture and stir to infuse the flavors.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet or wok, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Sauté the bell pepper and onion over medium-high heat until they start to soften.
3. Add the pineapple chunks and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

1. Return the fried chicken to the skillet or wok with the sautéed vegetables.
2. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
3. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions for an extra pop of freshness.
2. Serve the Taiwanese Sweet and Sour Chicken with lavender over steamed rice or alongside some stir-fried vegetables.
3. Enjoy the unique blend of flavors and savor the aromatic experience of the lavender-infused sauce.

Now, capture the attention of your friends and family with this innovative and delicious Taiwanese Sweet and Sour Chicken with a lavender twist