Quick Chop Suey
A quick, savory stir‑fry with caramelized onion, beef, and a silky sauce—perfect for a weekday dinner that feels like a comforting takeout dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a pan.
- Add boiling water, bouillon cubes, soy sauce, and molasses to the meat.
- Whisk cornstarch with cold water, then pour into the pan, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Add sliced celery and onion, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Serve the stew hot over rice or Chinese noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or ginger when browning the beef. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you want a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch or add a splash of oyster sauce for depth. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas can also enhance the dish. This recipe is versatile, similar to other beef recipes like Beef And Green Beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Quick Chop Suey hot over steamed rice or Chinese noodles for a complete meal. Pair it with a simple side of Chinese Cole Slaw for a refreshing crunch. For a more substantial dinner, consider serving it alongside Japanese Fried Rice. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the meat from becoming tough. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Chop Suey contains roughly 367 calories, with 6g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (31% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2277mg per serving (99% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times slightly if using larger pieces of meat.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Adjust to your heat preference to enhance the dish without overpowering it.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Quick Chop Suey gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Ensure all other ingredients, such as bouillon cubes and cornstarch, are certified gluten-free.
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).