Chop Suey Recipe: Chop Suey is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts (and stomachs!) of people worldwide. Originating from Chinese-American cuisine, it is a stir-fried blend of vegetables, protein, and a savory sauce. The dish’s name roughly translates to “mixed pieces,” and that’s exactly what it is—a delightful medley of ingredients cooked to perfection.
It’s quick to make, highly customizable, and packed with flavor. If you’re looking for a dish that is easy, adaptable, and ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions, then Chop Suey is your go-to recipe.
Why You Should Try Making Chop Suey
What makes Chop Suey so popular? It’s a one-pan wonder that’s nutritious and flexible. You can pack it with your favorite veggies and proteins to create a balanced meal full of vitamins, minerals, and protein. Chop Suey is also perfect for those looking to cut down on calories without sacrificing taste.
Plus, it can be customized based on your diet—whether you want a low-carb, vegetarian, or gluten-free option, Chop Suey can easily be modified to suit your needs. The flavors are bold yet comforting, making it a crowd-pleaser for even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients Required for Chop Suey
Here’s everything you’ll need to make a delicious plate of Chop Suey. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
Protein Options (Choose One):
- 2 chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
- 200 grams of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 200 grams of tofu, cubed
- 200 grams of beef or pork strips
Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 3 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Tools Needed
Having the right kitchen tools makes the cooking process faster and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools:
- Wok or a large non-stick pan (for stir-frying)
- Sharp knife (for cutting vegetables and protein)
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
Optional Tools:
- Tongs or a large spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
Preparing Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s crucial to prep everything in advance. Stir-frying is fast-paced, so you won’t have time to chop while the pan is on.
- Clean and Chop Your Vegetables: Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Aim for uniform sizes so that everything cooks at the same rate.
- Marinate the Protein: If you’re using meat or shrimp, marinate it with a bit of soy sauce, garlic, and pepper for at least 10-15 minutes. This enhances flavor and helps tenderize the protein.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Dissolve the cornstarch in water separately so that it’s ready to thicken the dish later.
Step 1: Cooking the Protein
Start by heating 1-2 tablespoons of oil in your wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated protein to the hot pan.
- For chicken, beef, or pork: Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned on the outside and cooked through.
- For shrimp: Cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.
- For tofu: Fry until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Once the protein is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. This prevents overcooking while you stir-fry the veggies.
Step 2: Stir-frying the Vegetables
Turn the heat back up and add another tablespoon of oil to the wok. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced onions, stir-frying until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Add the harder vegetables first, such as carrots and broccoli, since they take longer to cook. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, then add softer veggies like bell peppers and snap peas. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring they stay crisp but tender.
Step 3: Adding the Sauce
Once the vegetables are cooked, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour the pre-mixed sauce over the vegetables, followed by the cornstarch-water mixture. Stir continuously to coat everything in the sauce.
The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce as it heats. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for another minute until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Mixing Everything Together
Finally, return the cooked protein to the wok. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a sprinkle of sesame oil for a finishing touch.
Allow the dish to simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes to blend all the flavors.
Step 5: Cooking Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: This lowers the temperature, preventing proper stir-frying. Cook in batches if needed.
- Avoid overcooking: Vegetables should remain bright and crisp, not mushy.
- Balance the flavors: Taste frequently and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Alternative Ingredients and Variations
One of the best things about Chop Suey is how flexible the recipe can be. You can substitute or add ingredients to suit your taste or dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor.
Vegetable Substitutions
- Mushrooms (button, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms)
- Baby corn
- Bok choy
- Zucchini
- Cabbage
Protein Alternatives
- For a plant-based version, use extra-firm tofu, tempeh, or seitan.
- Seafood lovers can experiment with squid, scallops, or white fish fillets.
- For a lower-calorie option, use skinless chicken breast or turkey slices.
Low-Sodium or Gluten-Free Adjustments
- Replace soy sauce with low-sodium tamari or coconut aminos.
- Make sure to use a gluten-free oyster sauce or omit it entirely if necessary.
These variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your health goals or ingredient availability.
Serving Suggestions for Chop Suey
Chop Suey is best enjoyed with complementary sides to create a full and satisfying meal. Here are a few serving ideas:
Rice and Noodles
- Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a traditional pairing.
- For a more filling option, try it with fried rice or garlic butter rice.
- Want something lighter? Go with stir-fried rice noodles or zucchini noodles.
Side Dishes
- Spring rolls or dumplings for a delicious appetizer.
- A light cucumber salad with sesame dressing to balance the richness of the dish.
- Miso soup or egg drop soup for a comforting side.
Pair the meal with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lemon to cleanse your palate.
Nutritional Information
Chop Suey can be a nutritious and well-balanced dish, depending on the ingredients and cooking methods you choose.
General Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350-450 (depending on protein and sauce)
- Protein: 25-35 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams (with rice or noodles)
- Fiber: 6-8 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams
You can make the dish healthier by reducing the amount of oil and using lean proteins like chicken breast or tofu. Increasing the vegetable content also boosts fiber and vitamins.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Chop Suey
Made a bit too much Chop Suey? No worries! You can store and reheat leftovers without losing too much of the original flavor and texture.
How to Store:
- Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips:
- For best results, reheat in a wok or pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
- Microwave in short bursts (30-45 seconds), stirring in between to ensure even heating.
- If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQs about Chop Suey Recipe
1. What is chop suey?
Chop suey is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine featuring a mix of stir-fried vegetables and often includes meat such as chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp. The ingredients are bound in a savory sauce and typically served over rice or noodles.
2. What are the essential ingredients for making chop suey?
The essential ingredients for chop suey include a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, celery, onions, and bean sprouts. Protein choices range from chicken, pork, beef, or shrimp. For the sauce, you’ll need soy sauce, garlic, and cornstarch to thicken.
3. How do you thicken the sauce for chop suey?
To thicken the sauce in chop suey, mix cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry. Add this mixture to the stir-fried ingredients towards the end of cooking, allowing it to simmer briefly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
4. Can I make chop suey vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian chop suey, simply omit the meat and add more of your favorite vegetables or tofu. Ensure that the sauce ingredients, like soy sauce, are vegetarian-friendly.
5. What makes chop suey different from chow mein?
Chop suey and chow mein both originate from Chinese cuisine but differ primarily in preparation and ingredients. Chop suey is a dish of stir-fried vegetables and meat in a sauce, while chow mein focuses on stir-fried noodles with a lighter amount of vegetables and meat.
6. How long does it take to cook chop suey?
Chop suey is a quick dish, typically taking about 20-30 minutes to prepare and cook. The most time-consuming part is chopping the vegetables and meat, while the stir-frying itself is fast-paced.
7. Can chop suey be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare chop suey in advance. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove or in a microwave, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much.
FAQs about Chop Suey Recipe
1. What is the difference between Chop Suey and Chow Mein?
Chop Suey is a dish made with stir-fried vegetables and protein, typically served over rice. Chow Mein, on the other hand, involves stir-fried noodles mixed with vegetables and sometimes protein. The sauces and cooking methods can also differ slightly.
2. Can I make Chop Suey gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other condiments. Double-check all labels to ensure no hidden gluten ingredients.
3. How long does it take to prepare and cook Chop Suey?
Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, including chopping and marinating. Cooking takes an additional 10-15 minutes. In total, you can have a delicious Chop Suey meal ready in under 40 minutes.
4. Is Chop Suey healthy?
Chop Suey can be a healthy meal packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and lean protein. By limiting the use of oil, sodium, and processed ingredients, you can make it even healthier.
5. Can I meal prep Chop Suey in advance?
Absolutely! You can chop the vegetables and marinate the protein a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply stir-fry everything as directed for a quick and easy meal.
Conclusion
Making Chop Suey at home is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious, customizable, and healthy meal. With a few simple ingredients and tools, you can recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, Chop Suey ticks all the boxes.
So, grab your wok and start cooking! Your taste buds will thank you.
