Introduction
Chop Suey is a versatile and flavorful stir-fry that combines tender meat, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of texture and taste. Serve it over steamed rice for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb chicken breast or pork, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1 cup cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) bean sprouts, drained
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Cooked rice
Instructions
1. Cook the Meat:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken or pork and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Sauté garlic and onion for 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add carrots, bell peppers, snow peas, cabbage, and celery. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, keeping the vegetables tender-crisp.
3. Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth.
- Add the cooked meat back to the skillet, then pour the sauce mixture over the vegetables and meat.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) to thicken the sauce.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has a glossy finish and coats the meat and vegetables.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add Bean Sprouts and Serve:
- Gently fold in the bean sprouts and cook for 1 minute to warm through.
- Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with extra soy sauce or green onions if desired.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chop Suey
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables keep their crisp texture and vibrant colors.
- Customize Your Protein: Swap chicken or pork for beef, shrimp, or tofu for a twist.
- Prep in Advance: Chop all your vegetables and prepare the sauce before cooking to make the process smoother.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: ~25 g
- Carbohydrates: ~18 g
- Fat: ~10 g
- Fiber: ~5 g
FAQs
1. Can I make Chop Suey vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken or pork with tofu or just load up on extra vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the sauce.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store Chop Suey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking the vegetables.
3. What are some other vegetables I can use?
Feel free to add zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms for variety.
Conclusion
This easy and delicious Chop Suey Recipe brings together the best of savory flavors and vibrant textures. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or impressing your guests, this versatile dish is a must-try.
What’s your favorite vegetable to include in Chop Suey? Let us know in the comments!