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Discover the timeless allure of Chinese–American cuisine with our authentic Chop Suey recipe. This beloved dish takes you on a captivating culinary journey, highlighting the harmony of vibrant vegetables, succulent meats, and savory sauce. Originating in the bustling kitchens of early Chinese immigrants in the United States, Chop Suey has evolved into a beloved classic that continues to delight palates around the world. In this blog post, we invite you to join us as we delve into the history, technique, and flavors of Chop Suey, and guide you through crafting this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Chop Suey is a classic Chinese–American dish with a fascinating history. Its origins are a subject of debate, but it is widely believed to have been created in the United States, specifically in California during the late 19th century. Chinese immigrants, primarily from the Guangdong province, were among the early Chinese settlers in California, and they adapted their culinary traditions to local ingredients and tastes.
The name “Chop Suey” is thought to have originated from the Cantonese words “tsaap sui,” which mean “miscellaneous leftovers.” This suggests that the dish was created using a variety of available ingredients. It became popular among both Chinese and non-Chinese communities in the United States, eventually spreading to other parts of the world.
Chop Suey typically consists of a medley of vegetables, protein (often chicken, pork, or tofu), and a savory sauce, all served over rice or noodles. It’s a flavorful representation of Chinese–American cuisine, celebrating the fusion of Chinese cooking techniques with American ingredients and tastes.
Chop Suey
Chop Suey, with its enticing blend of textures and flavors, is a testament to the art of balance in Chinese cuisine. This delectable stir-fry dish features an array of ingredients, often including a medley of vegetables, meat or seafood, and a luscious sauce that coats each component in a symphony of taste. As we uncover the essence of Chop Suey, you'll not only learn the recipe's nuances but also gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural significance and culinary heritage.
Our Chop Suey recipe is a tribute to tradition, capturing the essence of the dish as it was enjoyed by generations past. Yet, it also allows for personal creativity, inviting you to customize ingredients to your liking. Whether you're an aspiring home cook or a seasoned chef, this guide empowers you to create an unforgettable Chop Suey experience that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Chinese-American cuisine.
Tools and Equipment
- Wok or large skillet: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Cutting board and knife: Buy On Amazon and Buy On Amazon
- Mixing bowls: Buy On Amazon
- Measuring cups and spoons: Buy On Amazon
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
For the Sauce:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the chicken breast (or tofu) into bite-sized pieces, julienne the vegetables, and mince the garlic.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce), sugar, cornstarch, and chicken or vegetable broth. This will be your flavorful sauce.
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant and slightly softened.
Add the chicken pieces (or tofu) to the wok. Cook and stir until they turn white and are mostly cooked through.
Add the julienned red and green bell peppers, carrots, broccoli florets, snap peas, baby corn, and mushrooms to the wok. Continue to stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Pour the prepared sauce over the stir-fry. Stir well to coat all the ingredients with the sauce.
Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients evenly.
Taste the Chop Suey and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Once everything is heated through and well-coated with the sauce, remove the wok from the heat.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 355.75kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 17.95g28%
- Saturated Fat 4.07g21%
- Trans Fat 0.11g
- Cholesterol 73.17mg25%
- Sodium 1719.78mg72%
- Potassium 665.25mg20%
- Total Carbohydrate 19.74g7%
- Dietary Fiber 5.01g21%
- Sugars 10.28g
- Protein 28.62g58%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- Customize your Chop Suey by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Some popular choices include water chestnuts, bean sprouts, shrimp, beef, or pork.
- For a vegetarian or vegan version, use tofu as your protein source and substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce.
- You can serve Chop Suey with steamed rice or noodles for a more substantial meal.
- Adjust the sauce's sweetness and saltiness to your liking by adding more sugar or soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve your homemade Chop Suey hot and garnish it with chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Pair it with a side of steamed jasmine rice or egg noodles for a complete meal.
Allergen Information:
Chop Suey can vary widely in its ingredients, so it's essential to be mindful of potential allergens in your specific recipe. Here are some common allergen considerations:
- Gluten Allergies: If soy sauce is used in the sauce, it typically contains gluten. Look for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if needed.
- Soy Allergies: Soy-based ingredients, such as tofu, soy sauce, or soybean oil, are common in Chop Suey. Individuals with soy allergies should use alternatives.
- Nut Allergies: Be cautious if your recipe includes nuts or uses nut oils, as this can vary. Ensure the absence of nuts or use alternatives.
- Shellfish Allergies: Some variations of Chop Suey may include seafood like shrimp or oyster sauce, which contains shellfish. Check the recipe for shellfish-free alternatives.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
Chop Suey's diverse flavors offer opportunities for various beverage pairings, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Consider these options:
- White Wine: A crisp, aromatic white wine like Riesling or Gewürztraminer can complement the flavors of Chop Suey. The slight sweetness of these wines balances the savory and slightly spicy elements of the dish.
- Beer: Light lagers or pale ales are good beer choices. Their mild flavors won't overpower the dish and can provide a refreshing contrast.
- Green Tea: For a non-alcoholic pairing, green tea enhances the meal's overall experience. Its earthy and slightly vegetal notes harmonize with the vegetables in Chop Suey.
Storage and Leftovers:
Chop Suey is often best when freshly prepared, but if you have leftovers, here's how to handle them:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Chop Suey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.
- Rice/Noodles: Keep rice or noodles separate from the sauce and ingredients to prevent them from becoming too soggy. Reheat rice or noodles separately by steaming or microwaving with a damp paper towel.
- Sauce and Ingredients: Reheat the sauce and ingredients in a skillet or microwave. You may need to add a little water or broth to prevent them from drying out.
- Tofu: Tofu can become soft when stored with the sauce. Consider storing tofu separately and adding it to reheated Chop Suey.
- Freshness: While leftovers can be tasty, Chop Suey is best enjoyed when freshly cooked to maintain its crispiness and vibrant flavors.
