Chop Suey, also known as Capcay, is a delightful and versatile dish that combines a variety of vegetables and proteins in a flavorful gravy sauce. This stir-fry is popular in many Asian cuisines and can be customized to include your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this Chop Suey recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces (or another protein of your choice)
- 3 cups broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups cabbage, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup squash, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup mushrooms (any type, I used king oyster mushrooms)
- Cut Asian fishballs or fishcake into bite-sized pieces
- 2 small 1-inch pieces of ginger
- 2 stalks green onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 small onion, sliced
- 3 tbsp minced garlic
Chop Suey Gravy Sauce
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (preferably light soy sauce for a milder flavor)
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 3 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp white pepper
- 1 tbsp chicken bouillon
To Thicken Gravy
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
Cut the chicken (or your chosen protein) and all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Slice the ginger into thin pieces and chop the garlic. Cut the green onions into 1-inch pieces and slice the onion thinly.
- Prepare the Gravy Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, sugar, white pepper, and chicken bouillon. Ensure thorough mixing to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Cook the Protein
Heat a large skillet or wok to medium-high. Add a tablespoon of oil and sauté the fishballs or fishcake pieces until they are cooked through and lightly golden. Set them aside once done.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet or wok, heat another tablespoon of oil. Sauté ginger, garlic, and sliced onions until aromatic, about 1-2 minutes. Add broccoli, cabbage, squash, and mushrooms, stir-frying for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
- Combine and Cook
Return the cooked fishballs or fishcake to the skillet or wok, gently mixing everything together. Add the green onions and fishballs or fishcake pieces. Pour the gravy sauce over the mixture and stir well to coat all the ingredients.
- Thicken the Gravy
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1/2 cup of water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the skillet or wok, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients evenly.
- Serve
Serve this delightful dish hot over steamed rice or noodles, sharing it with loved ones for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Conclusion
Chop Suey (Capcay) is a flavorful and versatile dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. With its combination of fresh vegetables, tender protein, and savory gravy, it makes for a perfect meal any day of the week. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this delightful stir-fry that brings a taste of Asia to your kitchen.