Old fashioned beef chop suey is a classic Chinese-American dish that has been around for generations. This comforting dish pairs savory beef with crunchy vegetables and a flavorful sauce.
It is easy to make and a great way to use up leftover beef. Plus, it is a nutritious and delicious meal that can be served as a main course or side dish.
What is Old Fashioned Beef Chop Suey?
Old fashioned beef chop suey is a Chinese-American dish that dates back to the 1930s. This dish consists of stir-fried beef and vegetables in a savory sauce. It is a popular dish in the United States, and is often served in Chinese restaurants and buffets.
The dish is typically made with beef, onions, celery, and bean sprouts. The beef is stir-fried and then combined with the vegetables and a sauce. The dish is then served over white rice.
Why You’ll Love this Old Fashioned Beef Chop Suey?
Old fashioned beef chop suey is a delicious and easy to make dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. The beef and vegetables are cooked together in a savory sauce, creating a tasty and nutritious meal.
Plus, this dish is very versatile and can be served as a main course or side dish. It is also a great way to use up leftover beef, as it can easily be incorporated into the stir-fry.
You will also like the following Dinner recipes!
- Mf Doom Mac And Cheese Copycat Recipe
- How to make Costco Green Chili Chicken Bowl
- Easy Costco Meatball Recipe
How Does It Taste Like?
Old fashioned beef chop suey has a savory and slightly sweet flavor. The beef is tender and juicy, and the vegetables are crunchy and flavorful. The sauce is slightly thick and adds a richness to the dish.
The combination of the beef, vegetables, and sauce creates a delicious and comforting dish that is sure to please.
Ingredients
To prepare the Old fashioned beef chop suey, you’ll need these following ingredients:
sea salt (1 1⁄2 tsp or according to taste): Sea salt is used for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. It helps achieve a well-balanced taste in the dish.
chestnuts (12 oz – thinly sliced): Chestnuts add a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to the Chop Suey. They contribute to the overall richness and provide a unique texture.
button mushrooms (12 oz – canned): Button mushrooms contribute a mild and earthy flavor to the dish. They absorb the flavors of the sauce and complement the beef and vegetables.
molasses (3 tbsp – powder): Molasses adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. It provides a rich, caramel-like flavor that balances the savory and salty elements.
chow mein noodles (1 1⁄2 cup – cooked): Chow mein noodles are a classic accompaniment to Chop Suey. They add a crunchy texture and absorb the flavors of the dish.
ground pepper (1 1⁄2 tsp or according to taste): Ground pepper adds a hint of spiciness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. It complements the soy sauce and other ingredients.
soy sauce (4 1⁄2 tbsp): Soy sauce adds a savory and umami flavor to the dish. It is a key ingredient in Asian cuisine, providing depth and seasoning to the beef and vegetables.
Shortening (4 1⁄2 tbsp): Shortening is used for cooking the beef and vegetables. It adds richness to the dish and helps achieve a nice sear on the beef.
fresh beef (2 ¼ pound): Fresh beef is the main protein source in Chop Suey. It provides a hearty and meaty component to the dish, contributing to its satisfying and substantial nature.
cooked rice (1 1⁄2 cup or according to taste): Cooked rice is another traditional pairing with Chop Suey. It serves as a base and absorbs the flavorful sauce.
bean sprouts (1 1⁄2 oz – fresh): Bean sprouts add a crunchy and fresh texture to Chop Suey. They are a common ingredient in Asian stir-fries, providing a light and crisp element.
red onion (1 1⁄2 large – nicely diced): Diced red onion adds a pungent and slightly sweet flavor to the dish. It contributes to the aromatic base and provides a pop of color.
Flour (1 1⁄2 tbsp all-purpose): All-purpose flour is often used to coat the beef before cooking. It helps create a golden crust, seals in the juices, and thickens the sauce.
olive oil (1 tbsp – extra virgin): Olive oil is used for cooking and provides a Mediterranean flavor to the dish. It helps coat the vegetables and beef, adding richness and preventing sticking during cooking.
Directions
Old fashioned beef chop suey is incredibly convenient. Here’s a step-by-step guide for making this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Beef
Embark on the beef preparation by trimming excess fat and cutting the fresh beef into thin, delectable strips. In a bowl, generously marinate the beef strips with soy sauce and ground pepper, tailoring the quantities to your taste preferences. Set the bowl aside and allow the beef to marinate, infusing it with flavors for a minimum of 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Veggies
Elevate the vegetable ensemble by rinsing the bean sprouts and allowing them to drain. If opting for canned button mushrooms, ensure thorough drainage to eliminate excess liquid.
Step 3: Create Molasses Paste
Craft a delightful molasses paste by mixing molasses powder with a small amount of water in a small bowl. This paste will play a pivotal role in imparting a sweet and savory dimension to the dish. Set the molasses paste aside for later use.
Step 4: Prepare Shortening
Set the stage for the stir-frying spectacle by heating the shortening in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. The hot shortening will serve as the canvas for the flavorful creation.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Beef
Dive into the sizzling action by stir-frying the marinated beef in the hot shortening until it achieves a delectable browned exterior and is fully cooked through. Once perfection is achieved, gracefully remove the beef from the wok and set it aside.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
In the same wok, introduce a melody of diced red onion, chestnuts, and sliced celery. Stir-fry these aromatic vegetables until they reach a tender state, creating a tantalizing base for the dish.
Step 7: Mix the Molasses Paste
Elevate the flavor complexity by introducing the molasses paste to the vegetable medley. Stir the paste into the vegetables, ensuring a harmonious fusion that promises a sweet and savory symphony.
Step 8: Combine Beef and Mushrooms
Reintroduce the cooked beef to the wok, and add the canned button mushrooms to the mix. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to intermingle and create a cohesive, mouthwatering composition.
Step 9: Season with Salt
Bring the dish to savory perfection by seasoning the mixture with sea salt, adjusting the quantities according to your taste preferences. This step ensures a balanced and seasoned flavor profile.
Step 10: Toss Bean Sprouts
Introduce a final layer of freshness by tossing in the fresh bean sprouts. Cook them briefly, ensuring they retain their crispiness. Be cautious not to overcook, as the goal is to preserve their delightful crunch.
Step 11: Garnish and Serve
Elevate the visual appeal and taste by garnishing the Old Fashioned Beef Chop Suey with soy sauce, tailoring the quantity to your taste. Serve this delectable creation over cooked noodles (chow mein) or rice, presenting a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Step 12: Savor & Enjoy
Revel in the culinary symphony as you serve and savor the delicious Old Fashioned Beef Chop Suey. Immerse yourself in the delightful combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and the rich, molasses-infused sauce, savoring each bite of this timeless and flavorful dish.
Tips
• To make the dish spicier, add a teaspoon of chili paste or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• To make the dish healthier, substitute ground turkey for the ground beef and brown rice for the white rice.
• To make the dish more flavorful, substitute beef broth for the water.
• To make the dish vegetarian, substitute tofu for the ground beef.
• To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce.
• To make the dish vegan, substitute vegan beef crumbles for the ground beef and vegan oyster sauce for the oyster sauce.
Nutrition Information
One serving of old fashioned beef chop suey contains approximately:
- 470 calories
- 170 grams of fat
- 50 grams of protein
- 20 grams of carbohydrates, and
- 3 grams of fiber
How to store old fashioned beef chop suey?
Old fashioned beef chop suey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook until warmed through.
What other substitute can I use in old fashioned beef chop suey?
• To substitute the ground beef, you can use ground chicken, turkey, pork, or lamb.
• To substitute the bell pepper, you can use any other type of pepper such as jalapeno or poblano.
• To substitute the bean sprouts, you can use snow peas, bok choy, or broccoli.
• To substitute the soy sauce, you can use tamari or coconut aminos.
• To substitute the oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce.
• To substitute the sesame oil, you can use olive oil or canola oil.
• To substitute the cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.
Equipment
- Wok
- Stove
- large pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Basting Brush
- Cutting Board
- Grater
- Mixing Bowls, etc.
Ingredients
For the Dish:
- 2 ¼ pound fresh beef
- 4 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tsp ground pepper according to taste
- 1 1/2 oz bean sprouts fresh
- 12 oz button mushrooms canned
- 4 1/2 tbsp shortening
- 1 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp molasses powder
- 1 1/2 large red onion nicely diced
- 12 oz chestnuts thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 tsp sea salt according to taste
- 4 1/2 cups celery fresh – diagonally sliced
For Garnish:
- 1 1/2 soy sauce according to taste
- 1 1/2 cup to cooked noodles chow mein
- 1 1/2 cup cooked rice according to taste
Instructions
- Prepare and Marinate the Beef: Trim excess fat from the fresh beef and cut it into thin strips. In a bowl, marinate the beef strips with soy sauce and ground pepper according to taste. Set aside and let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare Vegetables: Rinse the bean sprouts and drain. If using canned button mushrooms, drain them well.
- Make Molasses Paste: In a small bowl, mix molasses powder with a small amount of water to form a paste. Set aside.
- Heat Shortening: In a large wok or skillet, heat the shortening over medium-high heat.
- Stir-Fry Beef: Stir-fry the marinated beef in the hot shortening until browned and cooked through. Remove beef from the wok and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same wok, add the diced red onion, chestnuts, and sliced celery. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender.
- Add Molasses Paste: Add the molasses paste to the vegetables, stirring to combine. This will add a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
- Combine: Return the cooked beef to the wok and add the canned button mushrooms. Stir everything together.
- Season: Season the mixture with sea salt according to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Add Bean Sprouts: Toss in the fresh bean sprouts and cook briefly until they are just tender. Be careful not to overcook, as you want to retain their crispiness.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Old Fashioned Beef Chop Suey with soy sauce according to taste. Serve over cooked noodles (chow mein) or rice.
- Enjoy: Serve the delicious Old Fashioned Beef Chop Suey hot, savoring the flavorful combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and the rich molasses-infused sauce.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the origin of beef chop suey?
A1. Beef chop suey is a Chinese-American dish that dates back to the 1930s. It is a popular dish in the United States, and is often served in Chinese restaurants and buffets.
Q2. What other vegetables can I use in this recipe?
A2. In addition to the bell pepper, you can use any other type of pepper such as jalapeno or poblano. You can also use snow peas, bok choy, or broccoli in place of the bean sprouts.
Q3. Can I use a different type of meat?
A3. Yes, you can use any type of ground meat such as chicken, turkey, pork, or lamb. You can also use vegan beef crumbles for a vegan option.
Q4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A4. Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce.
Q5. Is this dish healthy?
A5. Yes, this dish is healthy and nutritious. It is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals.
Q6. How long can I store this dish?
A6. This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q7. Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
A7. Yes, this dish is suitable for vegetarians. Simply substitute tofu for the ground beef.
Conclusion
Old fashioned beef chop suey is a classic Chinese-American dish that has been around for generations. This comforting dish pairs savory beef with crunchy vegetables and a flavorful sauce. It is easy to make and a great way to use up leftover beef.
Plus, it is a nutritious and delicious meal that can be served as a main course or side dish. With a few simple substitutions, this dish can be made gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian.
So, give this delicious old fashioned beef chop suey recipe a try and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal!