Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine chicken strips with salt, black pepper powder, red chili powder, ginger-garlic paste, vinegar, dark soy sauce, cornflour, all-purpose flour, and egg in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until all chicken pieces are well coated. Marinate for 1-2 hours.

Step 2: Deep Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. Carefully add the marinated chicken strips in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Deep fry for 5-7 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base

In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and the white part of spring onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.

Step 4: Add Sauces

To the pan, add red chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, and dark soy sauce. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix 1/2 tablespoon of cornflour with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Pour the cornflour slurry into the sauce, stirring continuously. Cook for 1 minute until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Add the deep-fried crispy chicken strips to the thickened sauce. Toss gently to ensure all chicken pieces are evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with the chopped green part of spring onions and white sesame seeds. Toss once more. Serve hot.

• Marinate chicken for at least 1-2 hours for best flavor and tenderness.

• Ensure oil is hot enough for deep frying to achieve crispiness.

• Adjust spice levels according to your preference.

• Add bell peppers or onions to the sauce for extra crunch and flavor.

• Serve with fried rice or noodles for a complete meal.