Chop Suey Recipe (Filipino Stir-Fried Vegetables with Meat)

Chop Suey is a popular Filipino stir-fried vegetable dish made with a colorful mix of vegetables, meat, and sometimes shrimp. It is cooked in a light savory sauce and is commonly served during special occasions and family meals. This dish is both nutritious and delicious, making it a favorite among Filipino households.

Menu: Chop Suey

Ingredients

• 200 grams chicken breast or pork, sliced thinly
• 100 grams shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup carrots, sliced
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup cabbage, chopped
• 1/2 cup snow peas or green beans
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and cut all vegetables into uniform sizes. Slice meat and prepare shrimp. This ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil in a wok or pan. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant. This builds the base flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Meat and Shrimp

Add chicken or pork and cook until lightly browned. Add shrimp and cook until pink. Set aside if needed to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

Add harder vegetables first (carrots, cauliflower, broccoli) and cook for 2–3 minutes. Then add softer vegetables (cabbage, bell peppers, snow peas).

Step 5: Add Sauce

Pour in chicken broth, oyster sauce, and soy sauce. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Add cornstarch slurry and mix until sauce thickens and coats the vegetables.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Return cooked meat and shrimp to the pan. Mix well and cook for another minute. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips for Perfect Chop Suey

• Cook vegetables in stages to maintain texture.
• Use high heat for better stir-fry results.
• Do not overcook vegetables to keep them crisp.
• Add quail eggs for extra richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking vegetables – becomes soggy.
• Too much sauce – overwhelms the dish.
• Skipping cornstarch – results in thin sauce.
• Overcrowding the pan – prevents proper stir-frying.

Extra Info / Insights

Chop Suey is influenced by Chinese cuisine but has been adapted to Filipino tastes. It is known for its vibrant mix of vegetables and balanced flavor. It is also considered a healthy dish due to its variety of nutrients from different vegetables.

FAQ

1. Can I make it vegetarian? – Yes, skip meat and use tofu or mushrooms.
2. Can I add other vegetables? – Yes, baby corn, mushrooms, or snap peas.
3. How do I keep vegetables crisp? – Cook on high heat and avoid overcooking.
4. Can I prepare it ahead? – Best served fresh, but can be reheated.
5. What protein can I use? – Chicken, pork, shrimp, or a combination.

Internal Links

Related recipes: Pinakbet, Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw

Conclusion

This Chop Suey Recipe is a healthy and delicious Filipino stir-fried vegetable dish perfect for everyday meals and special occasions. Its colorful presentation and balanced flavors make it a crowd favorite.