Chop suey is a delightful stir-fried dish that combines fresh vegetables with meat, served over rice or noodles. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to use your favorite ingredients. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that satisfies both cravings for flavor and nutrition. Let’s dive into making this classic dish that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
– 1 cup of sliced chicken or beef
– 2 cups of mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
– 1 cup of bean sprouts
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ginger, minced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
This dish provides approximately 250 calories per serving (1 cup). It contains 15g of protein, 10g of carbohydrates, and 12g of fat. The values may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant.
3. Add sliced meat and cook until browned.
4. Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the bean sprouts and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch.
7. Pour the sauce mixture over the stir-fried ingredients.
8. Stir well to coat everything evenly and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
9. Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute.
10. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute chicken or beef with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood version. You can also use other vegetables like snap peas or zucchini based on your preference or availability.
Serving and Pairings
Chop suey pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or lo mein noodles. It can also be served alongside spring rolls or dumplings for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or stir-fry in a pan. Chop suey can be frozen for up to a month; just make sure to separate it into portions.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much cornstarch can make the dish gummy.
- Overcooking the vegetables will make them mushy.
- Not preheating the pan can cause uneven cooking.
- Using low-quality soy sauce can affect the flavor.
- Skipping the ginger will reduce the overall flavor profile.
Helpful Tips
- Prep all ingredients before starting to cook for a smoother process.
- Use a high smoke point oil for better stir-frying.
- Experiment with different protein options for variety.
- Add a splash of sesame oil for additional flavor.
FAQs
Can I make chop suey vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the meat with tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth instead of meat-based sauces.
What vegetables are best for chop suey?
Common choices include bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and bean sprouts, but you can use any fresh vegetables you have on hand.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work well for convenience, just ensure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding to the dish.
How spicy is chop suey?
Chop suey is typically mild, but you can add chili sauce or fresh chilies to spice it up according to your taste.
Is chop suey healthy?
Chop suey can be a healthy option when made with lean proteins and plenty of vegetables, while controlling the amount of sauce used.
Conclusion
Chop suey is a versatile, delicious dish that brings together a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful meal with loved ones!
Chop Suey Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup of sliced chicken or beef
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables broccoli, bell peppers, carrots
- 1 cup of bean sprouts
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon of ginger minced
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant.
- Add sliced meat and cook until browned.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the bean sprouts and cook for another 2 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the stir-fried ingredients.
- Stir well to coat everything evenly and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute.
- Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Nutrition
