Zao Copycat Recipe: Recreate Your Favorite Restaurant Dish at Home Easily

Have you ever craved the irresistible flavors of Zao but couldn’t make it to the restaurant? I totally get it! That’s why I decided to create this copycat recipe that brings Zao’s signature taste right into your kitchen.

Ingredients

Recreating Zao’s exquisite flavors at home starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

For the Batter

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cold sparkling water

For Frying

• Vegetable oil, for deep frying
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Equipment Needed

To master this Zao copycat recipe, make sure you have the following tools in your kitchen:

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining marinades and batters.
• Whisk: Helps achieve smooth and well-mixed ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for consistent flavors.
• Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: Necessary for achieving that crispy, restaurant-quality texture.
• Tongs or a Slotted Spoon: For safely handling and turning the fried pieces.
• Cooling Rack: Allows excess oil to drain, keeping your dish crispy.
• Marinating Container or Zip-Top Bags: Perfect for marinating proteins evenly.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For preparing fresh ingredients like garlic and ginger.
• Paper Towels: Useful for draining and serving your fried delights.
• Cooking Thermometer: Optional but helpful for monitoring oil temperature during frying.

Having these tools on hand will make the cooking process seamless and ensure your Zao-inspired dish turns out perfectly every time.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing parts of your Zao copycat recipe in advance can save you time and enhance the flavors. Follow these steps to ensure everything is ready when you need it.

Marinate the Protein

1. Combine Marinade Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil.

1. Marinate the Protein

Place your chosen protein (such as chicken or tofu) into a resealable zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the protein, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag, removing excess air, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.

Prepare the Batter

1. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Stir until well blended.

1. Store the Batter

Transfer the dry mixture to an airtight container. Keep it stored in a cool, dry place for up to one week. When ready to use, add cold water to achieve the desired batter consistency before frying.

Pre-Cut Vegetables

1. Chop Vegetables

Slice vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots into uniform pieces for even cooking.

1. Store Vegetables

Place the chopped vegetables in airtight containers or zip-top bags. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Thaw frozen vegetables in the refrigerator before using.

Prepare Dipping Sauces

1. Mix Sauce Ingredients

In small containers, combine your favorite dipping sauces like sweet chili, soy-ginger, or garlic aioli.

1. Refrigerate Sauces

Seal the containers and store them in the refrigerator. These sauces can be kept for up to one week, allowing you to enjoy your Zao-inspired dish with freshly prepared sauces anytime.

Breakdown of Make-Ahead Components

By following these make-ahead instructions, you’ll streamline your cooking process and ensure that your homemade Zao dish is flavorful and ready to impress whenever you’re ready to serve.

Directions

Recreating Zao’s signature flavors at home is a rewarding experience. Follow these steps to achieve crispy, flavorful perfection.

Prep

1. Marinate the Protein

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons mirin, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil.
• Add 1 pound of chicken thighs or tofu cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight to let the flavors penetrate.

1. Prepare the Vegetables

• Wash and slice 1 red bell pepper, 1 yellow bell pepper, and 1 small broccoli head into bite-sized pieces.
• Set the vegetables aside or store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.

1. Set Up Your Frying Station

• Gather all necessary equipment: mixing bowls, a whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a frying pan or deep fryer, tongs or a slotted spoon, and a cooling rack lined with paper towels.
• Ensure the oil is ready for frying by heating it to 350°F (175°C).

Cook

1. Prepare the Batter

• In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon baking powder.
• Gradually add 3/4 cup cold water to the dry ingredients, whisking until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

1. Fry the Protein

• Remove the marinated protein from the refrigerator, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
• Dip each piece into the prepared batter, coating thoroughly.
• Carefully place the battered protein into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
• Fry until golden brown and crispy, approximately 4-5 minutes per batch.
• Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the fried protein to the cooling rack, letting excess oil drain away.

1. Cook the Vegetables

• In a separate pan, sauté the prepared vegetables in a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
• Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.

Assemble

1. Combine Components

• Arrange the crispy fried protein on a large serving platter.
• Surround with the sautéed vegetables, creating a vibrant and appetizing display.

1. Add the Dipping Sauce

• Drizzle your homemade dipping sauce over the protein or serve it on the side in small bowls.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

I love elevating my Zao copycat dish with thoughtful accompaniments and vibrant presentations. Here are my top serving suggestions to make your meal unforgettable:

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice

• Fluff 2 cups of cooked jasmine rice and serve it alongside the main dish to absorb the savory flavors.

• Asian Slaw

• Combine 1 cup shredded cabbage, ½ cup julienned carrots, and ¼ cup sliced bell peppers.
• Toss with a light sesame dressing made from 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon honey.

• Pickled Vegetables

• Quick-pickle 1 cucumber and 1 radish by slicing them thinly.
• Mix with ¼ cup rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, and a pinch of salt. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.

Garnishes

• Toasted Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds over the dish for added crunch and flavor.

• Chopped Green Onions

• Finely chop 3 green onions and scatter them on top for a fresh, oniony bite.

• Fresh Cilantro

• Add a handful of chopped cilantro leaves to enhance the aroma and introduce a herbal note.

Dipping Sauces

Prepare these versatile sauces to complement your Zao-inspired dish:

• Spicy Mayo

• Mix ¼ cup mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon Sriracha. Adjust to your heat preference.

• Sweet Chili Sauce

• Serve store-bought or make your own by combining ½ cup sugar, ½ cup rice vinegar, ¼ cup water, and 2 tablespoons chili flakes. Simmer until thickened.

• Soy-Ginger Sauce

• Combine ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger. Stir well before serving.

Beverage Pairings

Enhance your meal with these refreshing beverages:

Presentation Tips

• Plating

• Arrange the crispy protein and sautéed vegetables neatly on a large platter.
• Drizzle your chosen dipping sauce over the top and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

• Heat Management

• Serve immediately to ensure the fried protein stays crispy. Preheat your plates or use a warming tray to maintain the right temperature.
• Present the dish in the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves and enjoy a communal dining experience.

These serving suggestions not only enhance the flavors of your homemade Zao copycat dish but also create a visually appealing and enjoyable meal for you and your guests.

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage and reheating are key to maintaining the delicious flavors and textures of your Zao copycat dish. Here’s how I ensure every bite remains as delightful as when it’s freshly made.

Storing Your Dish

1. Cool Completely: Let the cooked protein and vegetables cool to room temperature for no more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
2. Separate Components: Store the crispy protein and sautéed vegetables in separate airtight containers to preserve their textures.
3. Refrigeration: Place the containers in the refrigerator where they will keep fresh for up to three days.
4. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the protein for up to one month and the vegetables for up to two months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Instructions

To enjoy your Zao copycat dish at its best, follow these reheating steps:

Crispy Protein:

1. Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the protein evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
2. Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the protein in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway to ensure even heating.

Sautéed Vegetables:

1. Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Sauté the vegetables for 3-5 minutes until warmed through.
2. Microwave Method: Place the vegetables in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Tips for Best Results

• Avoid Overheating: Gently reheat to prevent drying out the protein and vegetables.
• Maintain Crispiness: Using the oven or air fryer helps retain the crispy texture of the fried protein.
• Consume Promptly: For optimal taste and texture, enjoy the reheated dish within the recommended storage times.

By following these storage and reheating techniques, you can savor your homemade Zao-inspired meal just as much as the original.

Conclusion

Trying out this Zao copycat recipe has been such a rewarding experience for me. Bringing those delicious restaurant flavors into my kitchen was easier than I thought and incredibly satisfying.

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this dish as much as I do. It’s a great way to impress friends and family with your cooking skills. Happy cooking!