Savory Chopt Soup Recipe: A Culinary Delight for Soup Enthusiasts

Chop suey is a dish in American Chinese cuisine that consists of meat (usually chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp), vegetables (such as bean sprouts, bamboo shoots, celery, and carrots), and a brown sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch. It is typically served with rice. Chop suey is thought to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century, and it remains a popular dish today.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 (15 ounce) can bamboo shoots, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can bean sprouts, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened. Add the bamboo shoots, bean sprouts, celery, and carrots and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water. Add the sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sauce has thickened and bubbly.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through. Serve over rice.

Tips:

Tip 1: For a vegetarian chop suey, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables, such as tofu, broccoli, or mushrooms.

Tip 2: To make a spicier chop suey, add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Tip 3: If you don’t have any bamboo shoots or bean sprouts, you can substitute other vegetables, such as water chestnuts or snap peas.

Tip 4: To make a thicker sauce, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the sauce before simmering.

Tip 5: Chop suey can be served over rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes.

Benefits:

Chop suey is a healthy and flavorful dish that is packed with vegetables. It is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Chop suey is also a low-fat and low-calorie dish, making it a good choice for those who are watching their weight.

Summary:

Chop suey is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a healthy and affordable meal that can be easily prepared at home.

Chop Suey Recipe

Chop suey is a dish in American Chinese cuisine that consists of meat (usually chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp), vegetables (such as bean sprouts, bamboo shoots, celery, and carrots), and a brown sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch. Chop suey is thought to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century, and it remains a popular dish today.

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Variations
• Tips
• History
• Popularity

These six key aspects provide a comprehensive overview of chop suey, from its ingredients and instructions to its variations, tips, history, and popularity.

1. Ingredients

The ingredients used in chop suey are essential to its flavor and texture. The main ingredients include meat, vegetables, and a brown sauce. The meat is typically chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp, and it is cut into small pieces. The vegetables most commonly used in chop suey are bean sprouts, bamboo shoots, celery, and carrots. The brown sauce is made from soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch, and it gives chop suey its characteristic flavor.

• Meat

  The meat in chop suey provides protein and flavor. Chicken, beef, pork, and shrimp are all popular choices for chop suey. The meat is typically cut into small pieces so that it cooks quickly and evenly.

• Vegetables

  The vegetables in chop suey provide texture and nutrients. Bean sprouts, bamboo shoots, celery, and carrots are all common vegetables used in chop suey. The vegetables are typically cut into small pieces so that they cook quickly and evenly.

• Brown sauce

  The brown sauce in chop suey is made from soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch. The soy sauce provides flavor, the sugar provides sweetness, and the cornstarch thickens the sauce. The brown sauce is what gives chop suey its characteristic flavor.

The ingredients in chop suey can be varied to create different flavors and textures. For example, adding different vegetables, such as broccoli or mushrooms, can change the flavor of the dish. Adding more or less soy sauce can change the saltiness of the dish. And adding more or less sugar can change the sweetness of the dish. By experimenting with different ingredients, you can create a chop suey that is perfect for your taste.

2. Instructions

The instructions for making chop suey are relatively simple, but there are a few key steps that you need to follow in order to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly. Here are the step-by-step instructions for making chop suey:

• Prepare the ingredients

  The first step is to prepare the ingredients. This includes cutting the meat and vegetables into small pieces. You should also mix together the ingredients for the brown sauce.

• Cook the meat

  The next step is to cook the meat. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the meat and cook until it is browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.

• Cook the vegetables

  Add the vegetables to the skillet and cook until they are tender. This will usually take about 5-7 minutes.

• Add the brown sauce

  Add the brown sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sauce has thickened and bubbly.

• Return the meat to the skillet

  Add the meat back to the skillet and cook until it is heated through.

• Serve

  Serve the chop suey over rice or noodles.

By following these simple instructions, you can make a delicious and authentic chop suey dish at home.

3. Variations

Chop suey is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit your own taste preferences. There are many different variations of chop suey, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some of the most popular variations include:

• American chop suey: This is the most common type of chop suey, and it is typically made with chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp, and a variety of vegetables, such as bean sprouts, bamboo shoots, celery, and carrots. The sauce is typically made with soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch.
• Cantonese chop suey: This variation of chop suey is made with a thicker sauce, and it often includes additional ingredients, such as water chestnuts, mushrooms, and snow peas. The sauce is typically made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce.
• Szechuan chop suey: This variation of chop suey is made with a spicy sauce, and it often includes additional ingredients, such as chili peppers, garlic, and ginger. The sauce is typically made with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.

In addition to these variations, there are many other ways to customize chop suey to your own taste preferences. For example, you can add different vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini. You can also add different meats, such as tofu, fish, or lamb. And you can adjust the flavor of the sauce by adding different spices, such as ginger, garlic, or chili peppers.

No matter how you choose to make it, chop suey is a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to please everyone at your table.

4. Tips

Tips play an important role in making a successful chop suey dish. By following a few simple tips, you can ensure that your chop suey is flavorful, healthy, and delicious.

One important tip is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The freshness of the ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of the dish. When choosing vegetables, look for ones that are crisp and colorful. When choosing meat, look for meat that is well-marbled and free of fat. Another important tip is to properly cook the meat and vegetables. The meat should be cooked until it is browned on all sides, and the vegetables should be cooked until they are tender but still slightly crunchy.

Finally, it is important to use the right amount of sauce. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the meat and vegetables, but it should not be so thick that it overpowers the other flavors in the dish. By following these simple tips, you can make a delicious and healthy chop suey dish that your family and friends will love.

5. History

Chop suey is a dish that has a long and storied history. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century, and it quickly became a popular dish in Chinese-American restaurants. Chop suey is thought to have been created by Chinese immigrants who were looking for a way to adapt their traditional dishes to the tastes of American diners. The dish is typically made with meat, vegetables, and a brown sauce, and it is often served with rice.

The history of chop suey is closely intertwined with the history of Chinese immigration to the United States. In the late 19th century, many Chinese immigrants came to the United States in search of work and opportunity. They often settled in Chinatowns in major cities, and they brought their own culture and cuisine with them. Chop suey was one of the dishes that Chinese immigrants introduced to the United States, and it quickly became a popular dish among both Chinese and American diners.

Chop suey has also been used as a symbol of Chinese-American culture. In the 1960s, the dish was featured in a popular song by The Vogues called “Five O’Clock World.” The song tells the story of a Chinese-American man who works in a chop suey restaurant. The song was a hit, and it helped to popularize chop suey even further. Today, chop suey is a staple of Chinese-American cuisine, and it is enjoyed by people all over the world.

6. Popularity

Chop suey is a popular dish in American Chinese cuisine. It is typically made with meat, vegetables, and a brown sauce, and it is often served with rice. Chop suey is thought to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century, and it quickly became a popular dish in Chinese-American restaurants.

• Availability

  Chop suey is a widely available dish. It is served in Chinese-American restaurants all over the United States, and it can also be found in many supermarkets and grocery stores. The availability of chop suey makes it a popular choice for people who are looking for a quick and easy meal.

• Affordability

  Chop suey is a relatively affordable dish. It is typically priced between $5 and $10 per serving. The affordability of chop suey makes it a popular choice for people who are on a budget.

• Taste

  Chop suey is a flavorful dish. The combination of meat, vegetables, and sauce creates a delicious and satisfying meal. The taste of chop suey is one of the main reasons why it is so popular.

• Convenience

  Chop suey is a convenient dish. It can be easily prepared at home or ordered from a restaurant. The convenience of chop suey makes it a popular choice for people who are short on time.

The popularity of chop suey is due to a number of factors, including its availability, affordability, taste, and convenience. Chop suey is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal.

Chop suey is a dish in American Chinese cuisine that typically consists of meat (usually chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp), vegetables (such as bean sprouts, bamboo shoots, celery, and carrots), and a brown sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch. It is typically served with rice.

Chop suey is thought to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century, and it remains a popular dish today. It is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. For example, different vegetables, meats, and sauces can be used to create different variations of chop suey.

Chop suey is a good source of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. It is also a relatively low-fat and low-calorie dish, making it a healthy choice for those who are watching their weight. Additionally, chop suey is a relatively inexpensive dish to make, making it a good option for those on a budget.

FAQs about Chop Suey

Chop suey is a popular dish in American Chinese cuisine, but there are many common questions and misconceptions about it. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about chop suey:

Question 1: What is chop suey?

Chop suey is a dish that typically consists of meat (usually chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp), vegetables (such as bean sprouts, bamboo shoots, celery, and carrots), and a brown sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch. It is typically served with rice.

Question 2: Where did chop suey originate?

Chop suey is thought to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century. It is believed to have been created by Chinese immigrants who were looking for a way to adapt their traditional dishes to the tastes of American diners.

Question 3: Is chop suey healthy?

Chop suey can be a healthy dish, as it is a good source of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. It is also a relatively low-fat and low-calorie dish. However, the healthiness of chop suey can vary depending on the ingredients used and how it is prepared. For example, chop suey that is made with a lot of oil or fried ingredients will be less healthy than chop suey that is made with lean protein and steamed vegetables.

Question 4: What are some common variations of chop suey?

There are many different variations of chop suey, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some of the most common variations include:

• American chop suey: This is the most common type of chop suey, and it is typically made with chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp, and a variety of vegetables, such as bean sprouts, bamboo shoots, celery, and carrots. The sauce is typically made with soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch.
• Cantonese chop suey: This variation of chop suey is made with a thicker sauce, and it often includes additional ingredients, such as water chestnuts, mushrooms, and snow peas. The sauce is typically made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce.
• Szechuan chop suey: This variation of chop suey is made with a spicy sauce, and it often includes additional ingredients, such as chili peppers, garlic, and ginger. The sauce is typically made with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.

Question 5: How can I make chop suey at home?

Chop suey is a relatively easy dish to make at home. Here is a simple recipe for chop suey:

1. Ingredients:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup of chopped onion
• 1/2 cup of chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup of chopped red bell pepper
• 1 (15 ounce) can of bamboo shoots, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can of bean sprouts, drained
• 1/2 cup of chopped celery
• 1/4 cup of chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup of soy sauce
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
• 1/4 cup of water

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened. Add the bamboo shoots, bean sprouts, celery, and carrots and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water. Add the sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sauce has thickened and bubbly.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through. Serve over rice.

Question 6: What are some tips for making chop suey?

Here are a few tips for making chop suey:

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The freshness of the ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of the dish.
• Cook the meat and vegetables properly. The meat should be cooked until it is browned on all sides, and the vegetables should be cooked until they are tender but still slightly crunchy.
• Use the right amount of sauce. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the meat and vegetables, but it should not be so thick that it overpowers the other flavors in the dish.
• Experiment with different ingredients and flavors. There are many different ways to make chop suey, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique dish.

Conclusion

Chop suey is a popular dish in American Chinese cuisine that is made with meat, vegetables, and a brown sauce. It is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. Chop suey is a good source of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, and it is also a relatively low-fat and low-calorie dish. This makes it a healthy choice for those who are looking for a quick and easy meal.

Chop suey is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a popular choice for both home cooks and restaurant diners. If you are looking for a new and exciting dish to try, chop suey is a great option.

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