Chop Suey("A Favorite From The '76 Cookbook.")
Chop Suey is a classic stir-fry dish featuring tender meat, crunchy celery, and bean sprouts in a savory sauce. Its bold flavors and quick preparation make it perfect for weeknight dinners. Served piping hot over rice, it's a satisfying and versatile meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the diced meat in oil.
- Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce to the meat.
- Cook for 20 minutes.
- Add sliced celery, sliced onions, and soup stock or gravy.
- Cook until nearly done.
- Add drained bean sprouts.
- Cook for 3 minutes.
- Mix together molasses, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and water.
- Add the mixture to the vegetable and meat combination.
- Cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the small can of peas and serve piping hot over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker preparation, use pre-sliced vegetables or frozen stir-fry mixes. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with tofu or tempeh for a delicious alternative. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition. Adjust the soy sauce according to your taste preference and consider using low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt intake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chop Suey piping hot over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cucumber Salad(China) for a refreshing side dish. You can also offer a side of Sesame Broccoli for added crunch and nutrition. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside egg rolls or spring rolls.
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 needed to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chop Suey("A Favorite From The '76 Cookbook.") contains roughly 1660 calories, with 52g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (111% of the Daily Value), protein (103% of the Daily Value), and potassium (88% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 other types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While pork and beef are traditional, you can use chicken, shrimp, or even a meat alternative like seitan or tempeh for a vegan option. Just adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose to ensure it is cooked thoroughly.
What can I substitute for the bean sprouts?
If you can't find bean sprouts, shredded cabbage or thinly sliced bok choy make great substitutes. They add similar crunch and texture to the dish. You can also skip them altogether if you prefer a simpler version.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet, use tamari instead of soy sauce, which is gluten-free. Ensure that any broth or stock you use is also labeled gluten-free. With these adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of Chop Suey.
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).