Beef Chop Suey is a classic Chinese-American stir-fry dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp vegetables in a savory sauce. It’s quick to make, versatile, and full of flavor, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something comforting and delicious.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Beef and Vegetables
- 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for marinating)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for marinating)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup sliced water chestnuts
- 1/2 cup snow peas
Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 15 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, black pepper, and beef broth. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the celery, bell peppers, water chestnuts, and snow peas, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce
Return the beef to the skillet along with the bean sprouts. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to combine. Add the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coats the ingredients.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from heat and serve the Beef Chop Suey immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy!
Cook Notes
- Meat Choice: Sirloin or flank steak is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness, but you can also use ribeye or skirt steak if preferred.
- Vegetables: Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Broccoli, carrots, and baby corn are great additions.
- Thickening the Sauce: Adjust the amount of cornstarch mixture depending on how thick you like your sauce. Add more if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Variations
1. Chicken Chop Suey
Swap out the beef for chicken breast or thighs for a different protein option. Follow the same marinating and cooking instructions.
2. Vegetarian Chop Suey
For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and add extra firm tofu or mushrooms. Substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth.
3. Spicy Beef Chop Suey
Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili paste or sliced fresh chili peppers to the sauce mixture for a spicy twist. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes during the stir-frying process.
Serving Suggestions
- Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a traditional pairing.
- Noodles: Try serving with lo mein or rice noodles for a different texture.
- Garnish: Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and a touch of crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and vegetables ahead of time and store them in separate airtight containers. Cook when ready to serve. The sauce can also be made in advance and kept in the refrigerator.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Beef Chop Suey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Beef Chop Suey?
Yes, you can freeze Beef Chop Suey. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
This Beef Chop Suey recipe is a simple, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce makes it a satisfying meal that will please the whole family. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or make one of the suggested variations to keep things interesting. Enjoy this classic dish with family and friends!
Did you try this recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below and share your favorite variations!
