Classic Vegetable Chop Suey

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Dive into the world of Chinese-American cuisine with this Classic Vegetable Chop Suey, a delightful stir-fry dish loaded with colorful vegetables and rich flavors. Perfect for veggie lovers and those looking for a hearty, yet healthy meal, this recipe is versatile and can easily accommodate any preferred mix of vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup broccoli florets
  • ½ cup cauliflower florets
  • ½ cup cabbage, chopped
  • ½ cup carrots, sliced
  • ½ cup baby corn
  • ½ cup snow peas
  • ½ cup green bell pepper, sliced
  • ½ cup red bell peppers, sliced
  • 2-3 cups vegetable stock (or 2-3 vegetable cubes dissolved in 2-3 cups water)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons pepper
  • Salt, to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch, dissolved in ¼ cup water

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop all your vegetables as listed. This includes broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, baby corn, snow peas, and bell peppers. The uniform size of the vegetables ensures they cook evenly.
  2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped garlic and sliced onion, sautéing until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Stir-Fry Vegetables: Add the harder vegetables first — carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower. Stir-fry for a few minutes before adding the rest of the vegetables: cabbage, baby corn, snow peas, and bell peppers. Cook while stirring frequently for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  4. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the vegetable stock with the soy sauce, pepper, and salt. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, being cautious with the soy sauce to prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: Once the vegetables are nearly done, pour the vegetable stock mixture over them. Bring to a simmer. Slowly stir in the cornstarch mixture, which will help thicken the sauce. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce is glossy and the vegetables are coated evenly.
  6. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the Chop Suey and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a more robust flavor or a saucier consistency, adjust the amount of stock and seasoning accordingly.
  7. Serve: Serve the hot Vegetable Chop Suey immediately, perfect as a standalone meal or alongside rice or noodles for a more filling dish.

Conclusion:

This Classic Vegetable Chop Suey is not only vibrant and flavorful but also offers a fantastic way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal any time. Enjoy the freshness of the vegetables and the savory depth of the sauce in this timeless dish that pleases palates and nourishes bodies.