There’s a comforting rhythm in the kitchen that unfolds when you start tossing vegetables and proteins into a sizzling wok. I was inspired to create this Easy Chop Suey recipe when my cravings for something vibrant and satisfying collided with the desire to shake off the routine of takeout and quick, uninspiring meals.
Picture this: a medley of crispy broccoli, sweet bell peppers, and plump shrimp engulfed in a luscious oyster sauce, all brought to life by the intoxicating aroma of garlic. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to impress family or friends without spending an entire evening slaving over the stove. Plus, it offers the versatility to switch up the vegetables based on what’s fresh or available.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone who loves homemade food, this straightforward recipe allows you to play with flavors and textures, ensuring every bite is a delight. Let’s dive into making a delightful stir-fried symphony that turns weeknight dinners into something extraordinary!
Why is Easy Chop Suey a Must-Try?
Bold flavors: This Easy Chop Suey takes comfort food to a new level with a blend of savory pork belly and shrimp that creates a delightful explosion of taste.
Quick and Simple: Whip it up in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy nights when you crave something homemade without the hassle.
Vegetable Variety: Toss in your favorite veggies! From vibrant broccoli to crunchy sugar snap peas, enjoy a colorful array that can change with the seasons.
Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish to impress your family or guests with its vibrant colors and enticing aroma—it’s sure to become a favorite at the dinner table!
Garlic Goodness: The aromatic garlic ties it together, providing a warm, inviting scent that makes cooking feel like a delightful ritual.
With all these reasons, you’ll want to explore and personalize this comforting dish!
Easy Chop Suey Ingredients
For the Protein
• Pork belly – adds a rich and savory flavor, but you can substitute with chicken for a lighter option.
• Shrimp – brings a sweet, tender bite; use firm tofu if aiming for a vegetarian variation.
For the Sauce
• Vegetable oil – use canola or sesame oil for added depth.
• Garlic – fresh minced garlic is essential, as it infuses the dish with warmth.
• Cornstarch – helps to thicken the sauce; make sure to dissolve it in water for an even consistency.
• Oyster sauce – contributes to that mouthwatering umami flavor; you can swap with soy sauce for a lighter taste.
• Ground pepper – adds a hint of spice to balance the sweetness of the shrimp.
For the Vegetables
• Cauliflower florets – provide a crunchy texture and absorb flavors beautifully.
• Broccoli florets – packed with nutrients and a lovely color contrast.
• Carrot – sliced diagonally for a beautiful presentation and natural sweetness.
• Sugar snap peas – bring a delightful crunch and refreshing sweetness; snow peas work well, too.
• Bell pepper – bright and sweet, enhancing the dish’s vibrancy.
• Pak choi – adds a tender, leafy texture; feel free to replace it with bok choy.
• Red onion – enhances the overall flavor and provides a lovely color.
• Mushrooms – add a savory depth; choose shiitake or button mushrooms for great texture.
• Young corn – unique and fun addition for both taste and visual appeal.
• Salt – sprinkle as needed to enhance all of the flavors in this Easy Chop Suey.
Now gather these wonderful ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Easy Chop Suey
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Heat the oil: In a wok or large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Cook the pork belly: Add 1 cup of pork belly slices and cook, stirring regularly, until all sides are nicely browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Then, add 1 cup of shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque.
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Thicken the sauce: Pour the cornstarch mixture (2 tablespoons dissolved in 1 cup water) into the wok. Add 3-4 tablespoons of oyster sauce and ¼ teaspoon of ground pepper. Bring to a gentle boil before removing the shrimp from the wok and setting them aside.
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Add the first batch of vegetables: Toss in broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and sugar snap peas into the wok. Cook covered for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
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Incorporate the remaining veggies: Add the bell pepper, pak choi, red onion, mushrooms, and young corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the sauce has thickened. Then, return the shrimp to the wok.
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Season and serve: Sprinkle salt as needed to enhance the flavors. Serve your Easy Chop Suey hot and enjoy the colorful creation!
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Chop Suey
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Freezer: Freeze Easy Chop Suey in a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan until heated through, adding a little extra oyster sauce or water if necessary to retain moisture and flavor.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Easy Chop Suey at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Expert Tips for Easy Chop Suey
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Ingredient Prep: Cut all vegetables uniformly for even cooking. This ensures that each bite of your Easy Chop Suey is perfectly tender and flavorful.
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High Heat: Use a wok or skillet that allows for high heat. This seals in the juices and creates a delightful caramelization on the pork belly and shrimp.
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Timing is Key: Don’t overcrowd the pan; if needed, cook in batches. This prevents steaming and allows flavors to develop beautifully.
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Taste Test: Before serving, always taste and adjust seasoning. A pinch of salt can elevate your Easy Chop Suey to extraordinary levels.
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Custom Veggies: Feel free to swap veggies based on what you have on hand; just keep the textures in mind to maintain balance in the dish.
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Add Fresh Herbs: For a pop of freshness, toss in some chopped cilantro or green scallions just before serving—this adds an exciting flavor dimension!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Chop Suey ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the pork belly and shrimp up to 24 hours in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to save time on busy weeknights. Additionally, all the vegetables can be prepped, washed, and cut up to 3 days ahead; just keep them in sealed bags or containers to maintain freshness. When it’s time to serve, simply follow the cooking steps from the recipe—heat the oil, sauté the garlic, and toss in your marinated proteins and prepped veggies. This way, you enjoy delicious homemade flavors without the fuss, allowing you to focus on family time or unwind after a long day!
What to Serve with Easy Chop Suey?
Transform your meal into a delightful experience with these perfect pairings to complement the vibrant flavors of your stir-fry.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Offers a fluffy base that absorbs the savory sauce, creating a satisfying bite with every forkful. The subtle fragrance pairs beautifully with the rich aromas of the chop suey.
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Garlicky Green Beans: Crispy and tender, these green beans lightly sautéed in garlic echo the freshness of your dish, enhancing that crave-worthy garlic flavor.
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Spring Rolls: These light, crispy appetizers provide a crunchy texture contrast, while their dipping sauce adds an extra layer of zing that’ll leave your guests wanting more.
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Crispy Fried Tofu: For those wanting additional protein, fried tofu adds a delicate crunch while soaking up the robust sauce flavors—simply delicious!
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Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad introduces a vibrant snap and a hint of sweetness that balances the savory notes of the chop suey.
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Chilled Sake or Light Beer: A nice glass of chilled sake or a light beer can perfectly complement your meal, cutting through the richness of the pork belly and shrimp while enhancing your dining experience.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, this dessert brings a delightful balance of flavors, combining the natural sweetness of mango with creamy coconut rice, leaving a lingering happiness.
Each of these pairings not only complements the textures and flavors of your Easy Chop Suey but also elevates it into a complete, satisfying meal!
Easy Chop Suey Variations
It’s time to let your culinary creativity shine! Feel free to mix and match flavors and ingredients to craft the perfect dish for your taste buds.
- Dairy-Free: Replace oyster sauce with a mix of soy sauce and a dash of coconut aminos for a lighter, dairy-free alternative.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap shrimp and pork belly for hearty mushrooms and marinated tofu, creating a satisfying meatless option.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for those who crave a bit of heat in their Easy Chop Suey.
- Crispy Textures: Toss in some toasted cashews or sesame seeds at the end for a delightful crunch that elevates each bite.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh cilantro or basil sprinkled on top just before serving adds a refreshing burst of flavor and color.
- Seasonal Veggie Swap: Use whatever vegetables are in season—zucchini, asparagus, or bok choy can create a uniquely delicious twist.
- Noodle Boost: Serve over a bed of stir-fried noodles or rice to transform your Easy Chop Suey into a filling one-dish meal.
- Flavor-Full: Kick up the umami with a splash of fish sauce or fermented black bean paste, delivering a deeper flavor profile.
Let each variation inspire you to find your favorite combination!
Easy Chop Suey Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pork belly for Easy Chop Suey?
Absolutely! Look for pork belly that has an even distribution of meat and fat. Fresh pork belly should have a slightly pink hue and be free from dark spots. If you’re opting for chicken instead, choose boneless, skinless thighs for tenderness, as they won’t dry out during cooking.
How should I store leftover Easy Chop Suey?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. When reheating, do so on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water to keep the sauce nice and saucy!
Can I freeze Easy Chop Suey?
Yes, freezing is a great option! Place Easy Chop Suey in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. When ready to eat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of oyster sauce or water to revive its flavors.
What if my vegetables turn mushy while cooking?
Very! To prevent mushy veggies, cut them into uniform sizes and avoid overcrowding the wok. Cook the vegetables in batches if necessary and add them based on cooking time; harder ones like carrots should go in earlier, while softer ones like bell peppers can be added later.
Is this recipe safe for pets or people with allergies?
Great question! This Easy Chop Suey contains shellfish (shrimp) and soy (from oyster sauce), which are common allergens. It’s best to avoid serving this dish to pets, particularly dogs, due to the seasoning and shrimp. If anyone has allergies, consider substituting shrimp with firm tofu or omitting it altogether. Always read labels to ensure ingredients are safe for individual dietary needs!
Can I use different vegetables in this Easy Chop Suey recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your vegetable mix based on personal preferences or seasonal produce. Options like zucchini, bell peppers, and snow peas work beautifully. The more, the merrier, as it adds to the color and nutritional value of your dish!
Savory Easy Chop Suey with Pork Belly and Shrimp Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add 1 cup of pork belly slices and cook, stirring regularly until browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Add 1 cup of shrimp and cook until pink and opaque.
- Pour the cornstarch mixture (2 tablespoons dissolves in 1 cup water) into the wok. Add 3-4 tablespoons of oyster sauce and ¼ teaspoon of ground pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Toss in broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and sugar snap peas into the wok. Cook covered for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the bell pepper, pak choi, red onion, mushrooms, and young corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Return the shrimp to the wok.
- Sprinkle salt as needed to enhance flavors. Serve hot.
