Traditional Chinese Chop Sue Chow Mein Recipe

Chop Suey Chow Mein Noodles is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of bean sprouts, water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, onions, celery, and your choice of pork, chicken, or beef, all served with noodles. This dish was incredibly popular during the 1950s, with every household having its own unique version of this comforting and economical comfort food. This recipe stands out as the ultimate Chop Suey Chow Mein Noodles recipe, boasting a rich history and a delicious blend of flavors.

The legend surrounding the creation of Chop Suey suggests that a group of weary miners stumbled upon a Chinese restaurant one night and ordered food. The tired owner went into the kitchen, scraped leftovers from previous customers’ plates, placed the scraps onto fresh plates, drenched the mixture of meat and vegetables in soy sauce, and presented it as a dish. Over time, this dish evolved into the beloved Chop Suey we know today. Don’t forget to add a garnish of fresh cilantro on top for that extra burst of flavor.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Serving: 4

INGREDIENTS:

• Red chilies: 2
• Water chestnuts: 1 cup
• Chopped celery: 1/2 cup
• Sliced green onions: 1/2 cup
• White peppercorns: 1 teaspoon
• Fresh ginger: 1 teaspoon
• Fish sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Chinese five spice: 1/2 teaspoon
• Chili garlic sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Bamboo shoots: 1/2 cup
• Fresh cilantro leaves: 1/2 cup
• Fresh basil leaves: 1/4 cup
• Chicken broth: 1 can
• Mixed vegetables: 2 cups
• Minced lemon grass: 1 teaspoon
• Chopped garlic: 1 teaspoon
• Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons
• Egg: 1 large
• Beef pieces: 1/2 cup
• Egg noodles: As required

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Aromatic Base: In a wok, combine minced lemon grass, white peppercorns, chopped garlic, Chinese five spices, red chilies, basil leaves, and ginger.
2. Cook the Beef: In a non-stick frying pan, cook the beef pieces until they are well done. Chop the cooked beef into small pieces.
3. Create the Sauce: Add the beef broth and sauces into the wok mixture from step 1. Cook the mixture for about ten minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables into the sauce mixture. Stir-fry the vegetables for about five minutes, ensuring they are cooked but still crisp.
5. Add Egg: Push the cooked ingredients to one side of the wok and add the egg. Scramble the egg and mix it with the rest of the ingredients.
6. Prepare the Noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to the instructions on the package. Drain them when done and add them to the wok.
7. Combine with Beef: Add the cooked beef pieces to the wok and mix all the ingredients together.
8. Final Touch: Incorporate the cilantro into the dish for a burst of freshness.
9. Serve: Your Chop Suey Chow Mein Noodles are now ready to be served, featuring a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

TIPS:

• Protein Choice: While this recipe features beef, you can easily substitute it with pork, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option, depending on your preference.
• Noodle Selection: Use your favorite type of egg noodles for this dish, whether fresh or dried. Cook them according to the package instructions for the best results.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro and basil leaves are essential for the authentic taste of this dish. Their aromatic qualities add a delightful dimension to the meal.
• Flavorful Broth: The beef broth and a combination of sauces infuse the dish with umami flavor. Adjust the quantity of sauces to suit your taste preferences.
• Wok Technique: The use of a wok is ideal for achieving a high heat that helps to maintain the crispness and texture of the vegetables.

Enjoy this beloved classic that pays homage to the historical origins of Chop Suey while offering a modern and delicious twist that’s sure to please your palate.