Our Chop Suey distinguishes itself as a premier american chop suey option, renowned for its vibrant mix of textures and rich taste. Whether you’re inspired by the classic chop sewi variations or seeking to recreate the authentic flavors of chop chop chinese, this recipe adapts seamlessly to your culinary preferences. The blend of succulent beef and fresh vegetables enveloped in a flavorful sauce makes it a perfect centerpiece for family dinners or casual gatherings.
I fondly recall the first time I introduced chop suey to my friends during a weekend get-together. The delightful aroma that filled the kitchen and the burst of flavors in every bite quickly made it a favorite. Encouraged by their enthusiastic feedback, I refined this chop suey recipe to ensure it remains both authentic and easy to prepare, allowing you to bring the essence of American-Chinese cuisine to your dining table effortlessly.
Equipments to make Chop Suey
Certain kitchen appliances that improve the cooking process are necessary to make the ideal chop suey:
- Large Wok or Skillet: Essential for stir-frying the beef and vegetables, ensuring even cooking and a slight char for added flavor.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: Crucial for slicing beef and chopping vegetables with precision.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure ingredients, ensuring a balanced and flavorful dish.
- Mixing Bowls: For marinating the beef and preparing the sauce.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring and tossing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Tongs: Ideal for handling beef and vegetables during the stir-fry process.
- Ladle: Convenient for serving generous portions of Chop Suey onto plates or over rice.
- Steamer Basket (Optional): For blanching vegetables if preferred.
- Small Bowl: For whisking together marinade and sauce ingredients.
- Grater: Essential for grating fresh ginger and garlic, adding aromatic depth to the dish.
Having these equipment on hand will make cooking easier and free up your time to concentrate on creating the savory, rich flavors that make Chop Suey so delicious.
Ingredients for Chop Suey
Customize your Chop Suey with these essential ingredients:
For the Beef Marinade:
1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
For the Chop Suey Sauce:
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 cup beef or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Stir-Fry:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium onion, sliced
1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
2 cups bean sprouts
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 carrots, julienned
1 cup broccoli florets
2 stalks celery, sliced
2 tablespoons green onions, chopped for garnish
For the Optional Add-Ins:
1 cup snow peas for added crunch
1/2 cup bamboo shoots for texture
1 teaspoon chili paste for extra heat
Tofu cubes for a vegan variation
For Serving:
Steamed white or brown rice
Egg noodles or chow mein (optional for a hearty meal)
Together, these ingredients make a hearty and filling dish of chop suey that is rich and strong.
Instructions to make Chop Suey
To make delicious chop suey that is brimming with real American-Chinese tastes, follow these steps:
Marinate the Beef:
Combine Marinade Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
Marinate Beef:
Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Prepare the Sauce:
Mix Sauce Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, beef or vegetable broth, sugar, and black pepper.
Whisk until well blended and set aside.
Prepare Cornstarch Slurry:
Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, ensuring there are no lumps.
Cook the Beef:
Heat Oil:
In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat.
Stir-Fry Beef:
Add the marinated beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Stir-fry until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
Add More Oil: In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, stir-frying until they begin to soften, about 2 minutes.
Add Remaining Vegetables:
Incorporate bean sprouts, mushrooms, carrots, broccoli, and celery.
Continue to stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp, approximately 5 minutes.
Combine Beef and Sauce:
Return Beef to Wok: Add the cooked beef back into the wok with the vegetables.
Pour in Sauce:Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
Thicken Sauce: Slowly add the cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce or black pepper if necessary.
6. Serve the Chop Suey:
Plate the Dish: Spoon the Chop Suey over a bed of steamed rice or egg noodles.
Garnish:Sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Enjoy Immediately: Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Chop Suey, a perfect blend of tender beef and vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce.
Allergen Information regarding Chop Suey
Be mindful of potential allergens present in Chop Suey to ensure a safe dining experience for everyone:
- Contains: Soy (soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce), Gluten (soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce), Shellfish (if using shrimp oyster sauce), Sesame (sesame oil)
- Possible Cross-Contamination: Ensure that all utensils and surfaces are thoroughly cleaned if preparing for individuals with severe allergies, especially related to soy and shellfish.
Being informed about these allergens allows you to make necessary substitutions or take precautions to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Substitutions
Use these flexible substitute choices to modify the chop suey to accommodate different dietary requirements and preferences:
Protein Alternatives:
- Chicken: Replace beef with thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs for a different protein profile.
- Tofu: Use firm tofu, pressed and cubed, as a plant-based protein for a vegan variation.
Gluten-Free Option:
- Tamari Sauce: Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari to eliminate gluten from the dish.
- Gluten-Free Hoisin Sauce: Use a gluten-free version of hoisin sauce or omit it if necessary.
Vegan Option:
- Oyster Sauce Substitute: Use mushroom-based oyster sauce or hoisin sauce to maintain depth of flavor without animal products.
- Vegetable Broth: Opt for vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the dish vegan.
Low-Carb Option:
- Zucchini Noodles: Serve the chop suey over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles.
- Low-Carb Soy Sauce: Use a low-sodium or low-carb soy sauce alternative to reduce carbohydrate intake.
Spice Level Adjustments:
- Milder Version: Reduce the amount of black pepper and omit chili paste if desired for a less spicy dish.
- Extra Heat: Add more chili paste or fresh chilies to increase the spiciness according to your preference.
Vegetable Variations:
- Additional Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like snap peas, baby corn, or bok choy for added nutrition and variety.
- Leafy Greens: Add spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of vitamins.
These substitutions allow you to tailor the dish to your specific dietary requirements without compromising on flavor.
Variations
Enhance and diversify your Chop Suey with these creative variations:
- American Chop Suey: Incorporate elbow macaroni and substitute beef with ground beef for a hearty, pasta-based version that melds American comfort food with traditional chop suey flavors.
- Beef Chop Suey: Focus on beef by using a blend of sirloin and flank steak, marinated and cooked to tender perfection, enhancing the dish’s meaty richness.
- Chicken Chop Suey: Replace beef with chicken breast or thighs, marinated and stir-fried with vegetables for a lighter yet equally flavorful variation.
- Vegan Chop Suey: Use firm tofu or tempeh as the protein source, and ensure all sauces are plant-based. Add a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
- Chop Choy Chop Suey: Incorporate chop choy into the vegetable mix, adding a crisp texture and fresh flavor that complements the savory sauce.
- Spicy Chop Suey: Add chili garlic sauce, sriracha, or fresh jalapeños to elevate the heat level, catering to those who enjoy a spicier dish.
- Chop Suey with Noodles: Serve the chop suey over your favorite noodles, such as egg noodles or rice noodles, for a more substantial and satisfying meal.
- Seafood Chop Suey: Introduce seafood elements like shrimp or scallops alongside the beef for a luxurious twist on the classic recipe.
- Stir-Fry Chop Suey: Utilize a high-heat stir-frying technique with a wok to achieve a slightly charred and smoky flavor profile, enhancing the dish’s depth.
- Sweet and Sour Chop Suey: Add a splash of rice vinegar and a bit more sugar to create a sweet and sour balance that brightens the overall flavor.
These variations encourage creativity, allowing you to adapt the recipe to your personal taste preferences and special occasions.
Notes
Optimize your Chop Suey with these helpful tips:
- Select the Right Cut of Beef: Opt for cuts like sirloin or flank steak that are tender and suitable for quick stir-frying, ensuring a juicy and flavorful dish.
- Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the beef thinly against the grain helps maintain tenderness and makes it easier to chew, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
- Marinate Thoroughly: Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes infuses it with flavor and helps tenderize the meat, ensuring each bite is succulent.
- High Heat Cooking: Cooking on high heat in a wok or skillet ensures that the beef and vegetables are quickly seared, locking in juices and adding a slight char for depth of flavor.
- Prep All Ingredients Beforehand: Chop Suey is a quick stir-fry dish, so having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go ensures a smooth cooking process without overcooking any components.
- Maintain Even Slicing: Cut vegetables and beef into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Balance Flavors: Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sugar to achieve a harmonious balance of savory and sweet elements.
- Add Vegetables in Stages: Start with harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli, and add softer ones like bean sprouts and leafy greens towards the end to retain their crispness.
- Garnish for Freshness: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions at the end of cooking brightens the dish and adds a burst of fresh flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Chop Suey is best enjoyed fresh, as the textures and flavors are most vibrant when the dish is hot.
Implementing these tips ensures you achieve the best results and make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Health Benefits
Enjoying our Chop Suey offers several health benefits, thanks to its nutritious ingredients:
- Beef: A great source of high-quality protein essential for muscle growth and repair. Opting for lean cuts like sirloin reduces saturated fat intake while maintaining protein levels.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, carrots, and broccoli are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting immune function, skin health, and digestion.
- Garlic and Ginger: Known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, helping to reduce inflammation and fight off infections.
- Sesame Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health and provide a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
- Vegetable-Rich Dish: Incorporating a variety of vegetables keeps the dish low in calories while high in nutrients, making it suitable for weight management.
- Broth-Based Sauce: The broth helps in maintaining hydration, especially when enjoyed as a warm and comforting meal.
- Fiber-Rich Vegetables: Promote healthy digestion and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Broccoli and Bell Peppers: Provide calcium and other minerals that contribute to strong bones and overall skeletal health.
Incorporating this dish into a balanced diet can contribute to overall health and well-being. Remember to enjoy it in moderation to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Nutrition Facts
Understanding the nutritional content of our Chop Suey can help you make informed dietary choices. Here’s a breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 8g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
Because of its nutritional composition, the chop suey is a well-balanced meal choice that offers healthy fats from lean beef and sesame oil along with a significant quantity of protein to aid in muscle building and repair. It is a tasty and filling dish that is enhanced by the sweetness and energy provided by the carbohydrates found in vegetables and sauces. Given the sodium concentration of the soy sauce and other ingredients, it’s crucial to eat this meal in moderation.
Understanding the nutritional facts makes it easier to include this meal in your diet and guarantees that it meets your dietary objectives.
Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements used. For more precise information, refer to the labels of your chosen ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Enhance your Chop Suey with these expert cooking tips:
- Properly Slice Beef: Slice the beef thinly and against the grain to ensure tenderness. Using a sharp knife makes slicing easier and cleaner.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes helps it absorb the rich flavors and tenderizes the meat, ensuring each bite is flavorful and succulent.
- High Heat Searing: Cooking the beef and vegetables over high heat ensures they brown nicely, locking in juices and adding depth to the dish’s flavor profile.
- Uniform Slicing: Slice vegetables and beef uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cook the beef and vegetables in batches if necessary to prevent steaming and ensure each piece gets a proper sear, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Customize the sauce’s thickness by adding more broth for a thinner consistency or letting it simmer longer for a richer, thicker sauce.
- Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Adding fresh cilantro or green onions just before serving brightens the dish and adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Chop Suey is best enjoyed fresh, as the textures and flavors are most vibrant when the dish is hot.
- Balance Flavors: Taste the dish as you cook and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, soy sauce, or sugar to achieve a harmonious balance of savory and sweet elements.
- Prep Ingredients Beforehand: Since chop suey is a quick stir-fry dish, having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go ensures a smooth cooking experience without overcooking any components.
Implementing these techniques will help you achieve a perfectly cooked, flavorful Chop Suey every time.
Storage Advice
Properly storing Chop Suey ensures it stays fresh and delicious for future meals. Here’s how to do it:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover chop suey in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows you to enjoy a quick and flavorful meal without compromising on taste.
- Freezing: For longer storage, divide the chop suey into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the chop suey on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
- Preventing Sogginess: If storing with rice or noodles, keep them separate and combine just before serving to maintain their textures.
- Labeling: Clearly label containers with the date to keep track of freshness and ensure timely consumption.
- Leftover Reuse: Transform leftovers into chop suey wraps, incorporate them into a hearty soup, or use them as a filling for burritos and quesadillas for added variety.
Following these storage guidelines allows you to enjoy your Chop Suey safely and conveniently at a later time.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Chop Suey with these creative serving ideas:
- Over Steamed Rice: Serve the chop suey atop a bed of fragrant steamed rice to soak up the rich sauce.
- With Egg Noodles: Pair the dish with egg noodles for a heartier and more traditional meal experience.
- In Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the chop suey into crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb and refreshing option.
- With Quinoa: Serve over quinoa for a protein-packed and gluten-free alternative.
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle additional fresh cilantro or green onions over the top to enhance the dish’s aroma and color.
- With a Side of Spring Rolls: Complement the meal with crunchy vegetable spring rolls for a balanced and satisfying dinner.
- As a Filling for Spring Rolls: Use the chop suey as a filling for fresh spring rolls, adding rice noodles and fresh herbs for a light and delicious appetizer.
- With a Side of Dumplings: Add steamed or fried dumplings to create a complete and festive meal.
- As a Pizza Topping: Use the chop suey as a topping for a fusion-style pizza, combining American and Chinese flavors.
- With Pickled Vegetables: Serve alongside a selection of pickled vegetables to add tanginess and balance the savory flavors of the chop suey.
These serving suggestions offer a well-balanced and filling lunch in addition to improving presentation.
By putting these tips into practice, you can vary your meals and offer your food in a visually pleasing and enticing way.
Troubleshooting
Having trouble getting Chop Suey ready? To guarantee that your dish turns out flawlessly, below are some typical issues and how to fix them:
- Beef Overcooked and Tough:
- Solution: Ensure you use tender cuts of beef like sirloin or flank steak and marinate them adequately. Avoid overcooking by following the recommended cooking times and checking for tenderness before removing from heat.
- Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare beef.
Sauce Too Thick: - Solution: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more beef or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Let the chop suey simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thin it out naturally.
- Tip: Gradually add liquid while stirring to maintain control over the sauce’s thickness.
Sauce Too Thin: - Solution: Allow the chop suey to simmer uncovered for additional time to reduce and thicken the sauce. Alternatively, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir it into the sauce until it thickens.
- Tip: Stir continuously after adding the slurry to prevent lumps.
Lack of Flavor: - Solution: Ensure that the beef is well-marinated and that fresh spices are used. Taste the chop suey before serving and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sugar as needed.
- Tip: Adding a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavors.
Vegetables Undercooked or Overcooked: - Solution: Add vegetables based on their cooking times. Start with harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli, and add softer ones like bean sprouts or leafy greens towards the end to prevent overcooking.
- Tip: Keep toppings fresh by adding quick-cooking vegetables just before serving.
Beef Sticking to the Pan: - Solution: Ensure the wok or skillet is properly preheated and adequately oiled before adding the beef. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the beef to steam rather than sear.
- Tip: Cook the beef in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and proper searing.
Sauce Separation: - Solution: Stir the sauce continuously while cooking to maintain a smooth consistency. Avoid using too high heat, which can cause the sauce to separate.
- Tip: Lower the heat if you notice the sauce starting to separate, and give it a good stir to recombine.
Too Spicy: - Solution: If the chop suey is too spicy, balance the heat by adding a bit more sugar or soy sauce. Incorporate additional vegetables or a splash of coconut milk to mellow the spiciness.
- Tip: Serve with a cooling side like steamed rice or a fresh cucumber salad to offset the heat.
Too Sweet: - Solution: Balance the sweetness by adding a splash of soy sauce or vinegar. Increase the amount of spices to introduce savory elements that counteract the sweetness.
- Tip: Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust the sweeteners accordingly to achieve a harmonious balance.
Beef Lacks Tenderness: - Solution: Use tender cuts of beef and ensure they are marinated properly. Avoid overcooking, as this can cause the beef to become tough.
- Tip: Slice the beef thinly and against the grain to enhance tenderness.
These tips will help you get over typical obstacles and consistently make delectable chop suey.
By mastering these troubleshooting techniques, you may improve your cooking confidence and abilities while producing consistently excellent meals.
FAQ
Yes, you can prepare the chop suey a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. The flavors often improve as they meld overnight.
Tip: Marinate the beef overnight for even more depth of flavor.
Chop Suey pairs wonderfully with sides like steamed rice, egg noodles, fried rice, or a fresh green salad. Adding toppings such as green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime juice can enhance the meal’s flavor and presentation.
Tip: For a complete meal, serve it alongside crispy vegetable spring rolls.
The beef should be tender and juicy, easily cut with a fork. Proper marination and high-heat cooking help achieve this texture, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
Tip: Avoid overcooking the beef to maintain its tenderness.
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in Chop Suey. Ensure they are thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the dish’s texture and flavor.
Tip: Blanch frozen vegetables briefly before adding them to the stir-fry for better texture.
While chop suey traditionally doesn’t include noodles, serving it over egg noodles or rice noodles can make for a more substantial meal. Choose noodles that complement the dish’s flavors and textures.
Tip: Cook the noodles separately to prevent them from absorbing too much sauce.
Yes, substitute beef with firm tofu or seitan for a vegetarian version. Ensure that all sauces used, such as soy sauce and oyster sauce, are vegetarian-friendly.
Tip: Marinate tofu similarly to beef for enhanced flavor.
Yes, when prepared with lean proteins and plenty of vegetables, Chop Suey is a nutritious and balanced meal. It provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Opting for low-sodium soy sauce and using healthy oils like olive oil can further enhance its health benefits.
Tip: Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables to boost the dish’s nutritional profile.
Yes, simply use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce to eliminate gluten from the dish. Ensure that all other sauces used, such as hoisin sauce, are also gluten-free.
Tip: Use gluten-free noodles or serve over rice to keep the dish entirely gluten-free.
Use low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce to reduce the overall salt content. Additionally, taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning accordingly by adding more vegetables or a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.
Tip: Incorporate a bit of sugar or honey to counteract excessive saltiness if needed.
Yes, feel free to experiment with different proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or pork. Each protein adds its unique flavor and texture, allowing you to customize the dish to your preference.
Tip: Adjust cooking times based on the protein used to ensure optimal tenderness and flavor.
These responses help you get the most out of your Chop Suey experience by addressing common questions.
Having concise responses to these frequently asked questions guarantees that you have the knowledge required to make and savor this delectable cuisine.
Footnotes
There are countless culinary opportunities when you start the process of making chop suey. Feel free to customize this recipe by experimenting with other ingredients and methods. Your distinctive touch will make the recipe uniquely yours, whether you’re using fresh herbs for a burst of freshness or adding extra spices for an added kick. During a family dinner I hosted, this Chop Suey was the highlight of the meal, uniting everyone with its savory and cozy presence. Enjoy the tasty journey of your handmade chop suey and have fun cooking!
For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, Navigate to our Main Dishes section, or visit Dinnerthendessert.com or Food Network. Thank you for choosing this recipe, and may your kitchen adventures be tasty and enjoyable!
