Beef Chop Suey Recipe: A Flavorful Stir-Fry You Need to Try

Introduction

Beef chop suey is a delicious and nutritious stir-fry dish that combines tender beef with crisp vegetables in a flavorful sauce. Whether you are a home cook looking for a quick and easy meal or someone who enjoys exploring Asian-inspired cuisine, this dish is a must-try. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it is also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about beef chop suey, including its history, key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and useful tips to perfect your dish.

What is Beef Chop Suey?

Beef chop suey is a Chinese-American dish made by stir-frying beef, mixed vegetables, and a savory sauce. It is often served over rice or noodles, making it a satisfying and well-balanced meal.

Origin of Chop Suey

Chop suey is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, created by Chinese immigrants in the United States. The term “chop suey” means “assorted pieces” in Cantonese, reflecting the dish’s mix of ingredients. While not a traditional Chinese dish, it has become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine.

Ingredients for Beef Chop Suey

To make an authentic and delicious beef chop suey, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb thinly sliced beef (sirloin or flank steak)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup celery, sliced
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup bamboo shoots (optional)
• 1/2 cup water chestnuts, sliced (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp white pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Beef Chop Suey

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Chop all vegetables and set them aside.
• Prepare the sauce by mixing beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper in a small bowl.

2. Marinate the Beef

• In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tsp cornstarch.
• Let it marinate for 15 minutes to enhance the flavor and texture.

3. Cook the Beef

• Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over high heat.
• Stir-fry the marinated beef for 2-3 minutes until browned.
• Take the beef out of the pan and set it aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

• Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan.
• Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
• Add celery, bell peppers, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots.
• Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.

5. Combine Everything

• Return the cooked beef to the pan.
• Pour in the prepared sauce and mix well.
• Add bean sprouts and water chestnuts, stirring everything together.
• Add the cornstarch slurry and stir to thicken the sauce.
• Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce coats all ingredients evenly.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

• Transfer the beef chop suey to a serving dish.
• Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions.
• Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for the Best Beef Chop Suey

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the crunch and taste of the dish.
• Slice Beef Thinly: Cutting against the grain ensures tender meat.
• Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Keep them slightly crisp for the best texture.
• Customize Your Sauce: Adjust soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar to your taste.
• Try Different Proteins: Substitute beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for variety.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	15g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	850mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute beef with chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu for a different version of chop suey.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep any leftover beef chop suey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat before serving.

3. Can I freeze beef chop suey?

Yes, chop suey can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

4. Is beef chop suey gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can make it gluten-free by using tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

5. What’s the difference between chop suey and chow mein?

Chop suey is served with rice, while chow mein is served with stir-fried noodles.

Conclusion

Beef chop suey is a quick, delicious, and versatile stir-fry dish that brings together tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try today, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!