Chop Suey Recipe

Chop Suey is a versatile and flavorful stir-fry dish that showcases a combination of tender meats, seafood, and a colorful array of vegetables. It’s a quick and nutritious meal that can be easily customized to suit individual preferences. Whether you’re using chicken, beef, or shrimp, this dish offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about making Chop Suey, from its origins to the step-by-step instructions for a perfect stir-fry meal.

Overview of the Recipe

Chop Suey is a popular Chinese-American stir-fry dish featuring a medley of vegetables, protein (such as beef, chicken, or shrimp), and a savory sauce. The vegetables retain a slight crispness, while the sauce adds rich umami flavors, creating a satisfying meal. This recipe calls for common vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, carrots, and bell peppers, and the protein includes a combination of beef or chicken with shrimp.

History and Origin of Chop Suey

Chop Suey has an interesting history and has been embraced by different cultures over time. Its origins are debated, but most food historians believe it was invented in the United States by Chinese immigrants in the 19th century. The name “Chop Suey” comes from the Cantonese words “tsaap sui,” which means “miscellaneous leftovers” or “assorted pieces.” The dish was likely a quick stir-fry meal that used up leftover meats and vegetables, making it an adaptable and economical choice.

Despite its roots in Chinese-American cuisine, Chop Suey’s popularity grew quickly, becoming a staple in Chinese restaurants around the world. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it suitable for any home cook looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal.

Ingredients for Chop Suey

• 1 cup broccoli florets – Provides a fresh crunch and adds to the nutritional value.
• 1/2 cup snow peas – Adds a slightly sweet, tender texture.
• 1 onion, sliced – Enhances the flavor with a subtle sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For stir-frying the ingredients.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic flavor to the dish.
• 1 cup beef or chicken, sliced into thin strips – This protein base gives the dish its heartiness.
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined – Adds a delicate, ocean-fresh taste to the meal.
• 3-4 tablespoons oyster sauce – The key ingredient for the rich, umami-filled sauce.
• 1 cup carrots, sliced into thin rounds – Adds color and natural sweetness.
• 1 cup cabbage, chopped – Adds bulk and a slight crunch.
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced – Brightens up the dish with flavor and color.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water) – Helps create the sauce that ties all the flavors together.
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce – Balances the salty and umami notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.
• Cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) – Optional, for thickening the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chop Suey

1. Heat the Oil
In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. This will infuse the oil with the garlic flavor, creating a delicious base for the dish.

2. Cook the Meat and Shrimp
Add the sliced beef or chicken strips to the pan. Stir-fry them for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned and fully cooked. Then, add the shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink. Remove the cooked meat and shrimp from the pan and set them aside for later.

3. Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pan, add the sliced onions and carrots. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes to start softening them. Next, add the cabbage, bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas. Stir-fry the vegetables for another 3-5 minutes until they become slightly tender but still maintain a crisp texture.

4. Add the Sauce
Stir in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, and chicken broth (or water) to the pan. These ingredients create a savory sauce that ties the dish together. Return the cooked beef or chicken and shrimp to the pan, mixing everything to ensure the meat and vegetables are well-coated with the sauce.

5. Optional Thickening
If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water). Let the sauce cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing it to thicken to your desired consistency.

6. Season and Serve
Taste the Chop Suey and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish hot, over a bed of steamed rice or alongside noodles, to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Chop Suey can be served as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread of dishes. It pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed rice – A classic accompaniment that absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
• Noodles – Adds a chewy texture and can be used as an alternative to rice.
• Fried rice – For a heartier meal with more flavor complexity.
• Egg rolls or spring rolls – A crispy side dish that contrasts with the stir-fry.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

To complete the meal, serve Chop Suey with light and refreshing sides like:

• Cucumber salad – Adds a cooling, crisp element.
• Steamed dumplings – For added variety in texture and flavor.
• Jasmine tea or green tea – A mild and aromatic beverage that complements the rich flavors of the stir-fry.

Variations of the Recipe

Chop Suey is a flexible dish, allowing you to switch up the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have available. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Chop Suey: Substitute the beef or chicken and shrimp with tofu or mushrooms. Add extra vegetables like bok choy, zucchini, or bamboo shoots for additional texture.
• Chicken-Only Chop Suey: For a simpler version, you can use only chicken and skip the shrimp. This makes for a lighter, more straightforward protein option.
• Seafood Chop Suey: Skip the beef or chicken and add other seafood options like squid or scallops, which can elevate the dish with unique flavors and textures.
• Spicy Chop Suey: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to give the dish a kick of heat.

Health Benefits of Chop Suey

Chop Suey is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The variety of vegetables provides a good mix of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which support overall health and digestion. Broccoli, snow peas, and carrots are rich in antioxidants, while shrimp offers lean protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids.

Additionally, since Chop Suey is stir-fried quickly, the vegetables retain most of their nutrients, making this dish a healthy option for a balanced diet. The inclusion of protein like beef, chicken, or seafood helps with muscle repair and energy, while the low-calorie, high-fiber vegetables make it a filling meal that can support weight management.

FAQs About Chop Suey

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
A: Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh ones. However, make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess water to prevent them from making the dish too soggy.

Q: Is Chop Suey gluten-free?
A: To make a gluten-free version, substitute the soy sauce and oyster sauce with gluten-free alternatives. Make sure any broth or stock used is also gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, Chop Suey can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it in a pan or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze leftover Chop Suey?
A: While you can freeze Chop Suey, it’s best to consume it fresh. Freezing may cause the vegetables to lose their crisp texture once reheated.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days.

Conclusion

Chop Suey is a classic stir-fry dish that can be tailored to suit any taste. Its vibrant combination of vegetables, proteins, and a savory sauce creates a satisfying and healthy meal. Whether you’re a fan of chicken, beef, or seafood, this dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich history and flexible ingredients, Chop Suey continues to be a beloved dish in homes around the world.

Chop Suey Recipe

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

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Description

Chop Suey is a popular Chinese-American stir-fry dish made with a combination of meats like chicken, beef, or shrimp and mixed vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce. It’s quick, versatile, and pairs well with rice or noodles, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup snow peas
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef or chicken, sliced into thin strips
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3–4 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup cabbage, chopped
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cornstarch slurry (optional for thickening)

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Instructions

1. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute.
2. Cook Meat & Shrimp: Add beef or chicken strips and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink. Remove from pan.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, stir-fry onions and carrots for 2-3 minutes. Add cabbage, bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas. Stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Sauce: Stir in oyster sauce, soy sauce, and chicken broth (or water). Add back cooked beef/chicken and shrimp. Simmer for a few minutes to combine flavors.
5. Optional Thickening: Add cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce (if desired) and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
6. Season & Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

• You can substitute beef or chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Adjust the amount of vegetables according to preference.
• Add cornstarch slurry for a thicker sauce if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-fry
• Cuisine: Chinese-American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Sugar: 5-8g
• Sodium: 600-900mg
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Cholesterol: 120-150mg