Old Fashioned Beef Chop Suey Recipe

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Old Fashioned Beef Chop Suey is a classic dish that combines tender pork, crunchy vegetables, and a savory soy sauce infusion. This recipe brings together a rich mix of textures and flavors, making it a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice and garnish with fresh bean sprouts and crispy chow mein noodles for added crunch.

Ingredients

  • Pork and Mushroom Mix:
  • 3 pounds cubed pork
  • 16 ounces canned mushrooms, drained
  • 16 ounces water chestnuts, sliced
  • 6 cups sliced celery
  • 2 onions, diced
  • Soy Sauce Infusion:
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup dark molasses
  • Rice Base:
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice
  • Thickening Agent:
  • 2 teaspoons all-purpose or bread flour
  • Seasonings:
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Shortening for Cooking:
  • 6 teaspoons shortening
  • Garnish and Texture:
  • Fresh bean sprouts
  • Chow mein noodles for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

  • Rinse and Drain: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
  • Cooking Process: In a large saucepan, add 2 cups of long-grain white rice and 4 cups of water.
  • Simmer and Rest: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove the mixture from heat and cover, allowing it to rest for 5 minutes. This resting period helps to enhance flavors and textures before serving.
  • Fluff with a Fork: After resting, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains before serving.

Cook the Pork and Vegetables

  • Heat Shortening: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 teaspoons of shortening over medium-high heat.
  • Brown the Pork: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed pork and cook until golden brown on all sides.
  • Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt another 2 teaspoons of shortening. Stir in sliced celery, canned mushrooms, and water chestnuts. Sauté until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Combine and Cook

  • Return Pork to Skillet: Return the browned pork to the skillet with the vegetables.
  • Add Soy Sauce Infusion: In a small bowl, mix the low-sodium soy sauce and dark molasses. Pour this mixture over the pork and vegetables.
  • Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to adjust the seasoning according to your flavor preferences.
  • Simmer: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and allow it to cook undisturbed for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Thicken the Sauce

  • Prepare Thickening Agent: In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of all-purpose flour with a small amount of water to create a smooth slurry.
  • Thicken Sauce: Gradually add the slurry to the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the flour is fully cooked.

Serve and Garnish

  • Prepare Garnish: Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons of shortening in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fresh bean sprouts and cook for 1-2 minutes until they are just tender but still crisp.
  • Assemble the Dish: Serve the chop suey over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with the sautéed bean sprouts and crispy chow mein noodles for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Beef Chop Suey recipe is a delightful blend of tender pork, crunchy vegetables, and a savory soy sauce infusion. The combination of flavors and textures, along with the fresh garnish, makes this dish a satisfying and delicious meal for any occasion. Enjoy this classic dish with family and friends, and savor the rich and comforting flavors it brings.