Chop Suey Beef, also known as Beef Chop Suey, is a popular dish often associated with Americanized Chinese cuisine. While its origins might be debated, there’s no denying its deliciousness. This dish combines tender beef strips with an assortment of crisp vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection in a savory sauce. Below, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Chop Suey Beef at home, ensuring every bite is as flavorful as the next.
Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s list down the ingredients you’ll need:
Beef: 1 pound (about 450 grams) of thinly sliced beef (flank steak or sirloin are good choices)
Vegetables: 1 medium onion, sliced; 1 medium bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced; 1 cup of sliced celery; 1 cup of sliced carrots; 1 cup of broccoli florets (optional for a crunchier texture)
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- Cooking Oil: 2-3 tablespoons (vegetable, peanut, or canola oil)
- Seasonings: Salt and the black Beef pepper to taste
- Garnish: Green onions, chopped – (optional)
Preparation
Slice Start by slicing the beef into thin strips, about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures quick and even cooking. If you’re using flank steak or sirloin, make sure to cut against the grain for tenderness.
Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and slice all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Consistency in size helps them cook evenly.
Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch slurry, and brown sugar (if using). Stir well to combine and set aside. This sauce will be the flavor base of your Chop Suey Beef.
Cooking Instructions
Heat the Pan
Place a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil and let it heat up.
Sear the Beef
Once the oil is hot, add the beef strips in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2 minutes on each side, or until browned. This locks in juices and adds a nice caramelized flavor.
Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the sliced onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the harder vegetables first, such as carrots and celery. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes.
Next, add the bell peppers and broccoli (if using). Continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Combine and Cook
Return the seared beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Let the Chop Suey Beef simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
Season and Taste
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Remember, the soy sauce and oyster sauce already contain salt, so be cautious when adding more.
Serve
Transfer the Chop Suey Beef to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite noodles for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Chop Suey Beef
Slice the Beef Thinly: Thin slices of beef cook quickly and evenly, ensuring tenderness.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the beef or stir-frying the vegetables, work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
This ensures better caramelization and even cooking.
Use High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to cook the ingredients quickly and retain their crispness and color.
Adjust the Sauce: The sauce is customizable. Feel free to add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy kick, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Serve Immediately: Stir-fried dishes are best served hot. The flavors and textures are at their peak right after cooking.
Variations
Chicken or Pork Chop Suey: Substitute beef with thinly sliced chicken breast or pork tenderloin for a different taste.
Vegetarian Chop Suey: Omit the beef and add more vegetables, such as tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas, for a meatless option.
Spicy Chop Suey: Add a tablespoon of chili sauce or sriracha to the sauce for some heat.
Conclusion
Chop Suey Beef is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Its combination of tender beef and crisp vegetables in a savory sauce makes it a perfect meal for any occasion. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily recreate this dish at home, impressing your family and friends with your culinary skills. Whether you serve it with rice, noodles, or even on its own, Chop Suey Beef is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy your cooking!
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