Shrimp Chop Suey

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Introduction

Shrimp Chop Suey is a delightful stir-fry dish that showcases the perfect harmony of fresh, crisp vegetables and succulent shrimp, all tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. With its origins in Chinese-American cuisine, Chop Suey has become a beloved dish worldwide for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving a healthy and satisfying meal. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles, and you have a vibrant and balanced dish that everyone will love.

I remember the first time I made Shrimp Chop Suey for a family dinner. The kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce as the shrimp sizzled in the wok, and everyone eagerly gathered around the table. The bright colors of the vegetables and the tender, flavorful shrimp made the dish a feast for both the eyes and the palate. It was an instant hit, with everyone going back for seconds.

One of the things I love most about Shrimp Chop Suey is how customizable it is. You can mix and match your favorite vegetables—like broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or bell peppers—and even substitute chicken, beef, or tofu for the shrimp to suit your preferences. The sauce is another highlight, a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet that brings all the ingredients together beautifully.

This dish is surprisingly easy to make, too. With just a few pantry staples like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of cornstarch, you can whip up a flavorful sauce in minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, Shrimp Chop Suey is a versatile and crowd-pleasing choice!

Perfect for:

  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Healthy, light meals
  • Family-style dining
  • Asian-inspired celebrations
  • Leftover-friendly meal prep

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Shrimp Chop Suey deserves a spot on your dinner table:

  • Fresh and Flavorful: A medley of fresh vegetables and juicy shrimp, stir-fried to perfection in a flavorful sauce.
  • Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and vitamins.
  • Customizable: Use your favorite vegetables or swap shrimp for chicken, beef, or tofu.
  • Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, perfect for meal prep.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Shrimp Chop Suey:

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (e.g., canola or peanut oil)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 cup bok choy, chopped
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 1 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
  • ½ cup celery, sliced
  • ½ cup bell peppers (red or yellow), sliced

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shrimp: Provides a light, tender protein with a natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory sauce.
  • Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce: Add depth and umami to the dish.
  • Sesame Oil: Enhances the dish with a nutty aroma.
  • Fresh Vegetables: A vibrant mix of textures and flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Shrimp Chop Suey:

Prepare the Sauce:

  1. Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, chicken broth, and sugar (if using). Set aside.

Cook the Shrimp:

  1. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until pink and fully cooked. Remove the shrimp and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
  2. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
  3. Add the Bok Choy, Snap Peas, and Bean Sprouts: Toss these vegetables into the skillet and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, keeping the vegetables crisp.

Combine and Serve:

  1. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  2. Add the Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Heat for an additional minute.
  3. Serve Hot: Transfer the Shrimp Chop Suey to a serving dish and enjoy with steamed rice or noodles.

How to Serve

  • With Rice: Pair with jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal.
  • With Noodles: Serve over stir-fried noodles or lo mein.
  • As a Side Dish: Serve alongside other Chinese-inspired dishes like fried rice or spring rolls.
  • Topped with Garnishes: Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added flavor.

Additional Tips

  • Keep Ingredients Crisp: Cook vegetables briefly over high heat to maintain their vibrant color and crunch.
  • Use a Hot Wok or Skillet: Ensure your pan is hot before adding ingredients to achieve the characteristic stir-fry texture and flavor.
  • Prep Everything Before Starting: Chop vegetables and mix the sauce in advance; stir-frying is a quick process, so having everything ready is essential.
  • Layer Cooking: Cook tougher vegetables like carrots and celery first, adding delicate ones like bok choy or bean sprouts last.
  • Boost Flavor: Add a splash of rice wine, Shaoxing wine, or a touch of white pepper for a more authentic taste.
  • Double the Sauce: If you like extra sauce, double the recipe for the sauce mixture—it’s great for drizzling over rice or noodles.
  • Experiment with Proteins: Swap shrimp with scallops, squid, or even cooked pork belly for variety.
  • Use Fresh Aromatics: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavor significantly—avoid skipping them.
  • Serve Immediately: Chop Suey tastes best fresh, as the vegetables maintain their texture and the sauce doesn’t thicken too much over time.
  • Make it Kid-Friendly: Use milder vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or sweet bell peppers, and keep the sauce light.

Recipe Variations

  1. Chicken Chop Suey: Replace shrimp with sliced chicken breast or thighs.
  2. Beef Chop Suey: Use thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin.
  3. Tofu Chop Suey: Add crispy tofu for a vegetarian option.
  4. Seafood Mix: Combine shrimp with scallops or squid for a seafood medley.
  5. Spicy Chop Suey: Add red chili flakes or Sriracha for some heat.
  6. Peanut Sauce Variation: Use a peanut-based sauce for a nutty twist.
  7. Mushroom Chop Suey: Add shiitake mushrooms for extra umami.
  8. Low-Carb Chop Suey: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
  9. Cashew Chop Suey: Toss in roasted cashews for added crunch.
  10. Sweet and Sour Twist: Add a splash of rice vinegar and pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
  • Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Special Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
  • Whisk for mixing the sauce

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
    Yes, thaw them under cold water or in the fridge overnight before using.
  2. What vegetables work best for Chop Suey?
    Any crisp and colorful vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, broccoli, or cabbage are excellent additions.
  3. Can I make it ahead?
    Yes, you can prep the vegetables, sauce, and shrimp in advance. Store them separately and stir-fry just before serving for freshness.
  4. How can I make it gluten-free?
    Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and use a gluten-free oyster sauce or hoisin sauce alternative.
  5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
  6. Can I omit oyster sauce?
    Yes, you can replace it with soy sauce and a dash of hoisin for a similar umami flavor.
  7. How do I prevent overcooking shrimp?
    Stir-fry shrimp quickly over high heat until just pink and opaque, then remove immediately to avoid rubbery texture.

Conclusion

Fresh, flavorful, and versatile, Shrimp Chop Suey brings the joy of a restaurant-style stir-fry right to your home. This vibrant dish features tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce that perfectly ties everything together. It’s a quick and healthy option that’s packed with flavor and color.

Whether you’re preparing it for a casual family dinner or looking to impress guests, Shrimp Chop Suey is always a hit. The recipe is simple to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions. Every bite is a delightful mix of textures and bold flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

I’d love to see how your Shrimp Chop Suey turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!

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