Chop Suey Recipe
Chop suey is a classic dish that embodies the essence of Chinese-American cuisine. This hearty stir-fry features a medley of colorful vegetables, tender meat, and a savory sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Perfect for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delightful dish!
Ingredients
– 1 cup chicken breast, sliced
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup carrots, julienned
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This chop suey recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of chop suey (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 5g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add sliced chicken breast and cook until lightly browned.
4. Stir in bell peppers and carrots; cook for 3-4 minutes.
5. Add broccoli florets and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Mix in bean sprouts and stir well.
7. Pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce; stir to combine.
8. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and add to the pan for thickening.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. You can also use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as snap peas or zucchini, to customize the dish.
Serving and Pairings
Chop suey pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with spring rolls or a light salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or stir-fry on medium heat until warmed through. This dish can be frozen, but the vegetables may lose some crispness upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking vegetables; they should remain crisp.
– Don’t skimp on the sauce; it adds essential flavor.
– Cut ingredients into uniform sizes for even cooking.
– Ensure your pan is hot before adding ingredients to prevent steaming.
– Taste as you cook to adjust seasoning.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
– Marinate the chicken for extra flavor.
– Experiment with different sauces for variety.
– Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
FAQs
What is chop suey?
Chop suey is a stir-fried dish typically made with meat, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. It’s beloved for its versatility and quick preparation.
Can I make chop suey vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make chop suey vegetarian by using tofu or tempeh instead of meat and adding a variety of vegetables.
What type of meat can I use?
Common choices include chicken, beef, or shrimp, but you can also use pork or any protein you prefer.
How can I make chop suey less salty?
To reduce saltiness, use low-sodium soy sauce and avoid adding extra salt during cooking.
Can I prepare chop suey in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep ingredients in advance and cook just before serving for a quick meal.
Conclusion
Chop suey is a delightful and versatile dish that can be tailored to suit your tastes. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy this quick and easy recipe for a satisfying meal that brings a taste of Chinese-American cuisine to your home.
Chop Suey Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken breast sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots julienned
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch optional
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add sliced chicken breast and cook until lightly browned.
- Stir in bell peppers and carrots; cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Mix in bean sprouts and stir well.
- Pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce; stir to combine.
- If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and add to the pan for thickening.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through.