There’s nothing quite like the vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas that fill the kitchen when cooking up a classic Chinese-American dish, and my Best Shrimp Chop Suey checks all the boxes. With succulent shrimp swimming amidst a medley of crisp vegetables, this dish not only delights the senses but also offers a healthy, quick meal that can be whipped together in just 30 minutes.
It all started one busy weeknight when I craved something flavorful and satisfying, yet didn’t want to resort to the usual takeout. I rummaged through my fridge and gathered some fresh veggies, and before I knew it, I had crafted a recipe that not only became a family favorite but also proved to be wonderfully adaptable to what I had on hand.
Whether you’re looking to impress with a hearty dinner or need to use up some leftovers, this shrimp chop suey is versatile enough to fit any occasion. So, let’s dive into this deliciousness and celebrate the art of home-cooked meals!
Why You’ll Love This Best Shrimp Chop Suey
Vibrant Colors: The dish showcases a rainbow of fresh vegetables, making it visually stunning and appealing.
Quick to Prepare: With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vitamins, it’s a guilt-free choice compared to traditional fried meals.
Flavorful & Savory: The rich sauce elevates the natural flavors of the shrimp and veggies, creating a delightful taste experience.
Adaptable Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish by swapping shrimp for chicken, beef, or even tofu as your protein. If you’re looking for more insights on healthy meals, check out our healthy recipe collection.
Best Shrimp Chop Suey Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for this delightful dish!
For the Sauce
- Chicken broth (½ cup) – This is the savory base for the sauce; you can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Rice wine vinegar (1 teaspoon) – Provides a tangy kick; can be swapped with apple cider vinegar if desired.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons) – Delivers umami richness; opt for gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon) – Balances flavors; feel free to omit for a less sweet version.
- Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons) – Enhances the dish’s depth; you can replace it with fish sauce or a vegetarian alternative.
- Corn starch (4 teaspoons) – Essential for thickening the sauce to the right consistency.
For the Stir-fry
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Vegetable oil – Great for sautéing; canola oil is a suitable substitute.
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Sesame oil – Infuses incredible flavor during cooking; I recommend not skipping this one!
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Large shrimp (1 lb) – The star protein of this dish; consider using tofu as a vegetarian alternative.
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Snow peas (1 cup) – Adds a delightful crunch; snap peas are a great substitute if needed.
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Carrots (2 large, sliced) – Provides sweetness and vibrant color; no substitutes necessary.
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Celery (3 stalks, chopped) – Offers crunch and aroma; keeps it fresh and aromatic.
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Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced) – Provides umami depth; you can omit or replace with bell peppers if preferred.
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Baby corn (1 can, drained) – Contributes sweetness; regular corn works as a substitute if you can’t find baby corn.
Feel ready to create the Best Shrimp Chop Suey? Let’s keep cooking together!
How to Make Best Shrimp Chop Suey
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Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, oyster sauce, and corn starch until smooth and well combined. Set aside for later use.
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Heat the Oils: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable and sesame oil over medium heat until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes. This step will ensure a flavorful stir-fry.
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Cook Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the hot oil. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened and begin to brighten in color.
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Add Remaining Vegetables: Stir in the snow peas, mushrooms, and baby corn along with the prepared sauce. Cook for another 4-5 minutes; you’ll know it’s ready when the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
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Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the vibrant vegetable mixture. Stir fry for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink, opaque, and are cooked through.
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Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the shrimp chop suey over steamed rice or noodles immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Optional: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for an added crunch and appeal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Best Shrimp Chop Suey
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors and ensures freshness for your delicious shrimp chop suey.
Freezer: If you want to preserve your dish longer, freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Make sure it cools completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals forming.
Reheating: To enjoy your leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
What to Serve with Best Shrimp Chop Suey?
Create the perfect culinary experience with these delicious pairings that enhance the flavors of your shrimp chop suey.
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Steamed Rice: Serve fluffy steamed white or jasmine rice to soak up the savory sauce, balancing the dish’s bold flavors beautifully.
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Chow Mein Noodles: These delightful, pan-fried noodles provide a satisfying crunch that complements the tender shrimp and crisp vegetables wonderfully.
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Garlic Bok Choy: The fresh garlic flavor and slightly crunchy texture of sautéed bok choy are a perfect, healthy side that elevates your meal’s nutrition.
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Spring Rolls: Crunchy vegetable spring rolls serve as an irresistible appetizer, adding a delightful crispness that’s synonymous with Asian dining.
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Crispy Wontons: These crunchy morsels filled with cream cheese or vegetables provide a contrast to the tender shrimp and create an appealing textural experience.
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Mango Salad: Tossed with a zesty lime dressing, a refreshing mango salad brings a sweet contrast that brightens the entire meal while adding a fruity twist.
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Green Tea: A calming cup of green tea will cleanse your palate and complement the dish’s savory profile, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Sesame Ice Cream: As a unique dessert, this creamy treat offers a nutty flavor that ties back to the Asian theme of the meal, leaving a satisfying finish.
Expert Tips for the Best Shrimp Chop Suey
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Prep Ahead: Gather and chop all your ingredients, including vegetables and sauce, before starting to cook. This ensures quick and smooth cooking without any hiccups.
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Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Keep a close eye on your shrimp as they only take 2-3 minutes to cook through. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to maintain their tenderness.
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Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth while cooking. For a thicker consistency, sprinkle in a bit more corn starch mixed with water.
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Vegetable Variety: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand! Broccoli, bell peppers, or even spinach can be great additions that brighten up the dish while keeping it healthy.
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Upgrade Flavor: For an extra kick, consider adding minced garlic or freshly grated ginger to your oil before cooking the vegetables. This will enhance the overall taste of the best shrimp chop suey!
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Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Make Ahead Options
These Best Shrimp Chop Suey are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the sauce and chop all vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, everything stays fresh and ready to stir-fry when hunger strikes. For even quicker prep, you can also cook the shrimp earlier and reheat them gently before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply sauté the prepped veggies, add the sauce, and stir in the shrimp until warmed through. This approach keeps everything just as delicious while minimizing cooking time!
Best Shrimp Chop Suey Variations
Feel free to personalize this recipe and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
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Vegetarian: Swap out shrimp for tofu, creating a nutritious and satisfying vegetarian meal that packs a protein punch.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is also gluten-free for a worry-free dish that’s just as delicious.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for a delightful heat that elevates the flavor profile and caters to spice lovers.
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Extra Crunch: Throw in some water chestnuts or bean sprouts for an added crunch that increases texture and makes every bite even more interesting.
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Flavor Boost: Incorporate minced garlic and ginger into the oil before adding vegetables for an aromatic punch that enhances the overall taste beautifully.
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Diverse Vegetables: Mix in zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli to personalize the dish according to your tastes and whatever you have on hand.
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Coconut Twist: For a unique flavor, swap chicken broth with coconut milk, creating a creamy, slightly sweet twist on this classic dish.
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Meal Prep Version: Make a big batch, and portion it out; it freezes exceptionally well, letting you enjoy a homemade meal anytime you desire.
Best Shrimp Chop Suey Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for the best shrimp chop suey?
For the best shrimp chop suey, I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp. These sizes ensure that the shrimp don’t shrink too much during cooking, maintaining their juiciness. If you prefer a vegetarian option, feel free to substitute the shrimp with firm tofu, which will soak up the delicious sauce beautifully.
How should I store leftovers of shrimp chop suey?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to keep them sealed to maintain freshness and flavor. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chop suey for up to 3 months. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Can I freeze shrimp chop suey, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your shrimp chop suey, follow these steps:
- Allow the dish to cool completely at room temperature.
- Portion it into individual servings and place in freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags.
- Label with the date and lay them flat in the freezer.
- For best results, consume within 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until hot.
What if my shrimp are overcooked?
If your shrimp turn out overcooked, they might be tough and chewy. To avoid this, ensure you cook them just until they’re pink and opaque, which usually takes only 2-3 minutes. If it happens, you can still salvage your meal by serving the shrimp in a rich sauce that can help mask the overcooked texture. Serve with plenty of veggies and sauce to maintain moisture!
Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of?
Yes, it’s always good to consider dietary restrictions! This shrimp chop suey can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce. Additionally, if you have guests who may be allergic to shellfish, opt for firm tofu or chicken as an alternative protein. Always check with your guests about any food allergies beforehand to ensure everyone can enjoy the meal!
How do I choose ripe vegetables for the chop suey?
For the best shrimp chop suey, choose vegetables that are firm and vivid in color. Look for snow peas that are bright green and crispy, carrots that are firm with a vibrant orange hue, and mushrooms that are smooth and free of dark spots. Fresh vegetables not only enhance the dish visually but also ensure a delightful crunch and flavor in every bite.
Best Shrimp Chop Suey – Quick, Healthy Delight You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, oyster sauce, and corn starch until smooth and well combined. Set aside for later use.
- Heat the Oils: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable and sesame oil over medium heat until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the hot oil. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add Remaining Vegetables: Stir in the snow peas, mushrooms, and baby corn along with the prepared sauce. Cook for another 4-5 minutes.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the mixture. Stir fry for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve over steamed rice or noodles immediately.