Chop Suey
Chop Suey is a savory stir-fry dish that combines tender stew meat with a medley of vegetables and mushrooms, all enveloped in a flavorful soy sauce. This comforting, hearty meal is perfect for family dinners and is easily served over rice or noodles, satisfying both meat lovers and veggie enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown meat and cook until tender, about 2 to 2 1/2 hours.
- Add mushrooms and onions.
- Cook until onions are done.
- Add 6 to 8 cups water, soy sauce, and vegetables.
- Thicken with cornstarch mixed with 1/2 water and 1/2 soy sauce.
- Serve over rice or noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, marinate the stew meat in soy sauce for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute the stew meat with chicken or tofu for a lighter option. Don't hesitate to add fresh vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition. If you prefer a thicker sauce, gradually adjust the cornstarch mixture to your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chop Suey over steamed rice or noodles for a filling meal. For a complete dinner, pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a refreshing salad like Marinated Tofu Salad. This dish also goes well with egg rolls or spring rolls for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until heated through, being careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chop Suey contains roughly 297 calories, with 7g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2076mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can enhance the dish's flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as fresh vegetables may require less time to cook. Consider using a mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Chop Suey is excellent for meal prep! You can make a large batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just store it in individual containers, and it will keep well in the fridge for several days. Reheat as needed for a quick and satisfying meal.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! To create a vegetarian version, simply substitute the stew meat with tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bok choy. Using vegetable broth instead of water will add more depth to the flavor, making it a delicious option for vegan recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).