This Shrimp Chop Suey is a vibrant, delicious dish that combines juicy shrimp with tender vegetables. The quick stir-fry process locks in all the flavors, creating a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
With its savory sauce and colorful mix of vegetables, this dish is perfect for a quick family dinner or even as a weeknight meal prep. Pair it with your favorite rice or noodles for a well-rounded, flavorful dish that will leave everyone at the table wanting more.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1/2 cup snow peas
- 1/2 cup celery, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and chicken broth. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, bell pepper, carrot, snow peas, and celery. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the shrimp back to the skillet, then pour the soy sauce mixture over the shrimp and vegetables. Stir to coat.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Origin and History:
Shrimp Chop Suey is a variation of the classic Chop Suey, a Chinese-American dish that was created in the late 19th century. The dish is believed to have been invented by Chinese immigrants in the United States who were looking to adapt traditional Chinese cooking to the ingredients available in their new environment. The word “Chop Suey” means “assorted pieces” in Cantonese, which perfectly describes the dish’s combination of various vegetables, meat, and flavorful sauces. Shrimp Chop Suey adds a delicious twist by featuring shrimp, making it a light and flavorful option for seafood lovers.
Cooking Tips:
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure to avoid overcooking them to maintain their delicate texture. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re ready to be removed from the heat.
- Customize your vegetables: Feel free to swap out the vegetables in this dish based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. For instance, mushrooms, zucchini, or bok choy are great additions to the classic mix.
- Use fresh ingredients: The key to a flavorful Stir-fry is using fresh, crisp vegetables. Fresh vegetables will not only taste better but will also hold up better when stir-fried.
Variations:
- Make it spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers to the stir-fry.
- Add nuts for crunch: Try adding cashews or water chestnuts to add a delightful crunch to your dish.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap out the shrimp for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of this dish.
Health Benefits:
Shrimp Chop Suey is a nutritious and well-balanced meal. It’s high in protein, low in fat, and packed with vegetables, offering plenty of fiber and essential vitamins. The dish can be made even healthier by using a low-sodium soy sauce or tamari, especially for those watching their sodium intake. By including a variety of colorful vegetables, this dish also provides a rich source of antioxidants, which are beneficial for overall health.
Perfect Pairings:
- Serve Shrimp Chop Suey over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or rice noodles for a fulfilling meal.
- You can also pair it with a light soup, such as Hot and Sour Soup, for a more substantial, flavorful meal.
About the Dish:
Shrimp Chop Suey is a flavorful and versatile stir-fry dish that combines succulent shrimp with a medley of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. It’s a popular Chinese-American recipe known for its balance of textures and vibrant colors. This dish is quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for a fast, weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep idea.
Why You’ll Love Shrimp Chop Suey:
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy days when you need something delicious and nutritious.
- Customizable: The beauty of Chop Suey lies in its adaptability. You can mix and match the vegetables, use different types of protein like chicken or tofu, or even add extra spices to suit your flavor profile.
- Balanced Meal: Packed with shrimp and vegetables, this dish is rich in protein and fiber while being low in fat. It’s a well-rounded meal that will keep you full without weighing you down.
Shrimp Chop Suey Serving Ideas:
- Over Rice: Serve it with steamed white or brown rice for a simple, comforting dish.
- Noodles: Pair it with noodles such as soba, rice noodles, or even lo mein for a heartier meal.
- With an Appetizer: Start your meal with some spring rolls, dumplings, or a hot and sour soup for a complete Chinese-inspired feast.
- As a Wrap: For a lighter alternative, wrap the shrimp and veggie stir-fry in lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.
Shrimp Chop Suey for Meal Prep:
This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store it in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. It’s a great option for packing lunch for the week or for dinner when you’re short on time.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Chop Suey:
- Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp, preferably wild-caught. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- High Heat: Stir-fry recipes like this one are best cooked on high heat. It helps to cook the shrimp and vegetables quickly while retaining their texture.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to load up on extra vegetables like mushrooms, bean sprouts, or bok choy to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional content.
- Soy Sauce Variations: For a deeper, richer flavor, use dark soy sauce or a mix of regular soy sauce and oyster sauce.
Why Shrimp Chop Suey Works for Any Occasion:
Shrimp Chop Suey is a great dish to serve for family dinners, parties, or even as a quick solo meal. It’s light enough to be enjoyed during the warmer months but hearty enough to satisfy in colder weather. The balance of protein and vegetables also makes it a great choice for anyone following a healthy eating plan.
Conclusion:
Shrimp Chop Suey is a delicious and versatile dish that brings together fresh shrimp and vibrant vegetables in a savory, satisfying stir-fry. Its quick preparation time makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, and its customizable nature means you can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or as a wrap, this dish provides a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful. Perfect for meal prepping, Shrimp Chop Suey is a go-to recipe that can be enjoyed by the whole family or enjoyed on your own as a tasty, quick dinner option. Give it a try and enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this classic Chinese-American dish!